A SISTER-school program between Red Cliffs Primary School and a Filipino elementary school is providing staff and students the opportunity to engage in and learn about a different culture.
After the idea was suggested by principal Luke Jeffers, Red Cliffs Primary School teacher Amalia Warburton, who grew up in the Philippines, approached Manggahan Elementary School in Rodriguez, Rizal province, while visiting her home country last year.
“I brought a copy of the memorandum of understanding and explained how a sister-school program can benefit both Australian and Filipino students and teachers,” Ms Warburton said.
“Initially the children could link up via video calls or pen pal type arrangements, then collaborate from there, learning about each other’s schools, learning and life.”
The idea behind the program was to improve student learning and outcomes at both schools.
“By being part of this program, the students will have increased global awareness and intercultural skills,” Ms Warburton said.
“Students from both schools are encouraged to write in bilingual languages to support the teaching and learning of Filipino at RCPS and English at MES.
“This regular communication aims to develop students into citizens who are globally engaged, comfortable with diversity and with the skills to operate effectively across cultures with different world views and belief systems.
“By learning another language, their understanding, acceptance and tolerance of other cultures will be broader, thus preparing these children to become more respectful global citizens.”
Ms Warburton said the program had also greatly benefitted teachers, giving them first-hand experience of a different education system.
“We eventually aim to exchange information about curriculum, school policy, school events and exchange teaching resources, course materials and teaching strategies,” she said.
Ms Warburton said it had been gratifying to see students engage in the program and learn from their sister-school counterparts.
“I am so proud of my students as they really enjoy learning Filipino,” she said.
“It is indeed rewarding to see their beautiful smiles as they say ‘salamat po’ for teaching us and ‘paalam’ (thank you and goodbye).”
