For several years at the Upper School we have been working to create opportunities for students to share and celebrate their skills, abilities and accomplishments in the Arts with the local community. By doing so, we can:
1. Boost students confidence and sense of pride
2. Raise awareness of the great things happening in our school
3. Strengthen connections between the campuses and the wider community

By hosting talent shows, art exhibitions, science fairs or community service projects,students have the opportunity to demonstrate  their talents to  local businesses, organizations and community groups.

The goal is to make this a collaborative effort that benefits both our students and the entire Lauremont community. I look forward to sharing my vision with you at the Upper School and gathering your feedback and ideas.

Why Showcasing?

Showcasing highlights the value of effort over innate ability. Showcasing the process demystifies innate artistic talent and emphasizes that skills are developed through hard work, perseverance and a growth mindset, rather than being fixed traits.

“When students share their process with other students, they learn how to give and receive peer feedback. This can feel scary but the critical feedback is how they improve their skills and grow as creative thinkers.”
— John Spencer, The A.I. Roadmap: Human Learning in the Age of Smart Machines

Showing processes promotes metacognition, innovation and insight into learning journeys, reaches diverse learners, changes narratives and builds important qualities – making it a valuable practice in education.

Why Are These Creative Processes Meaningful?

As we continue to nurture the growth and development of our students, it is essential to understand the profound importance of creativity and the act of creation in their educational journey. Our innate drive to create and make things is not just a pastime but a fundamental aspect of human nature that plays a crucial role in our children’s cognitive, emotional and social development.

At the heart of this creative impulse lies a powerful tool for self-expression and self-actualization. When our students engage in creative activities, they are not just producing artwork or completing assignments; they are tapping into a deep-seated need for purpose and leaving their unique mark on the world. This process allows them to bring their imagination to life, fostering a sense of accomplishment and personal growth that is invaluable for their self-esteem and future success. Moreover, the act of creation provides cognitive stimulation that our brains crave, lighting up reward centers and motivating further exploration and learning.

Perhaps most importantly, when our students create and present their work, they are exposed to essential human drives that shape behavior and personal development. These include the drive to acquire knowledge and skills, the drive to bond with others through shared experiences, the drive to learn and satisfy curiosity, the drive to defend their ideas and creations and the drive to feel a range of emotions through their creative endeavours.

By embracing these core human drives in our educational approach, we are not just teaching subjects – we are nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world. As parents and educators, let us continue to encourage and celebrate the creative spirit in our children, recognizing it as a vital component of their growth and future success