MILLENNIUM ROOTS SCHOOLS I continue to learn Back to SCHOOL Department of Qualifications, Curriculum & Assessments FIRST DAY PACK Session 2016-2017 Millennium Thematic Montessori Bag Organization and Guidelines for Parents Millennium International Montessori Programme (MIMP) www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 WELCOME Department of Qualifications, Curriculum & Assessments Dear Parents, We feel obliged and are thankful to you for having trusted us and showing faith in us, by selecting “The Millennium Schools” as the first home of learning. Your child is going to enter in a classroom where, “relationships are fostered, families are respected, children are honored, their thoughts are activated, their sense of inquiry is enhanced.” Children at TMS, are provided with a stimulating environment, where they acquire a true learning. Since we believe that true learning is the one that actually brings about a tangible growth and development, a child therefore, is actually made to pass through an experience, so that he can later on have a strong belief in whatever he studies in his books. With this, as our main objective, we at TMS, empower learners with the ability to enrich their futures, also we develop in them the taste/capacity to appreciate aesthetic beauty. We warmly welcome you and your child to our Montessori International Primary Program at The Millennium School. We work diligently to provide your child with the kind of exposure that helps them feel good about themselves and their school, and also about their community and country in the long run. By providing quality resources, innovative instruction, and an environment conducive to learning, we successfully manage to create personalities, who know how to embrace differences and sustain peace. You know your child best, your ideas, opinions and input hence are very important for us. With your feedback and support only we can achieve our goals. Our main goal is the same as ever and that is, to make lifelong good feelings about learning and school. A child, with a treasure of cherishable childhood memories can definitely turn into an individual whose ultimate aim is to love those around him. This is the reason why we say, TMS is ‘the home of love, joy and creativity’. Our classrooms are the places where, on one hand you will see projects in progress, paintings and little seeds in cups, on the other hand you will also see our own child bloom into a beautiful personality as he intermingles with his classmates, in that peculiar environment he is provided with. The seeds of his little thoughts are triggered by the inquisitive learning environment, which later on grow in to a healthy, positive and innovative mind, the mind which helps him understand the Millennial World and also equips him with the tools that are the pre requisites for effective learning. The mission of the The Millennium Schools in partnership with parents and community is to create school culture where a child is fully aware of the happenings around him, actually participates in a variety of activities, as he celebrates various national, cultural, religious and international days. These activities help make his learning profound. I assure you that this road to learning is not a bumpy one, with you as our partners, we will enable your child to meet the challenges, independently. We are looking forward to an exciting year of new experiences and lots of fun! Erum Atif Director Academics Department of Qualifications, Curriculum & Assessments The Millennium Schools [email protected] 01 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 MISSION STATEMENT If you are starting to think about your future or your child's future at one and the only The Millennium Schools and are aiming to develop a truly inclusive, successful and diverse academic skills set with a global perspective, coaching and counseling, an internationally recognized and accredited academic qualification, to benefit from diversity of languages offered, to enhance skill development through award winning digital literacy and ICT integration programs, to scale opportunity creation through entrepreneurial engagement, to inculcate environmental and community education as active responsible green citizens, to promote aptitude development through robotics, to benefit from ultimate learning eco system which is globally competitive and a personalized school/college culture which is beyond schooling today; The Millennium Schools, Pakistan purpose built Campuses Nationwide can help you achieve your desired goals and aspirations. TEACHING PRACTICES TMS aims to take children on a journey of investigation, encouraging them to generate and test their hypothesies, and enable them to depict their understanding through many symbolic languages, including drawing, sculpture, dramatic play and writing. We build our lessons on the foundations of prior schemas children carry with them. We allow them to build connections of their learning to the world outside their classrooms, we enable them to enjoy hands on experience. We want our children to 'learn how to learn'. We consider the creative development of children to be as important as literacy and numeracy development and thus strongly value learning through creative expression. LEARNING ENVIRONMENT Each Montessori classroom is well equipped with manipulative Montessori apparatus, books, educational toys and other materials for dramatic play, art, block play, and writing. Our large well equipped playgrounds offer a rich outdoor learning environment as a natural extension to our classrooms. Play areas provide numerous and varied opportunities to move as well as to explore and ponder. Basic equipment such as balls, tricycles, buckets, and shovels are used to extend ideas and their work with peers. Slides, sand pits, and a playhouse offer more opportunities for climbing, sliding, upper body work, dramatic play, and excavation. 02 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 TMS LEARNING AREAS In TMS, learning has been organized into six areas, which are inter-dependent & of equal importance. Living values with Islamic studies, Arts and creative learning are inter-woven throughout these strands as a medium of instruction. Social-Emotional Development When children feel safe, they trust their environment and are free to take social and intellectual risks. We consider social-emotional development, the keystone in a child’s life and place considerable emphasis on self -identity, emotional development, social play, and pro-social behavior. Teachers spend a major part of the day coaching children, helping them to help themselves, thereby working through social and emotional issues and building self-esteem. Physical Development and Health We strongly focus on skills that contribute to a child’s physical well-being. Large motor and sensory processing are important components of our early childhood program. Specific activities and equipment are thoughtfully introduced to build skills, strength, and endurance so that children can become competent, comfortable movers. Outdoor time is scheduled daily on our spacious playground, which provides opportunities for climbing, running, riding vehicles, connecting with the natural environment, and playing unstructured and structured games. Language and Communication Language and literacy is important in children’s overall thought and learning development. TMS gives full exposure to language-related activities such as role playing, singing, rhyming and reading to develop their ability to listen with understanding and to communicate effectively with others. We make them understand "concepts of print and help children to identify letter and make its correct sound, i.e. phonics. Knowledge and understanding of the world Every day, teachers nurture children’s sense of wonder. Believing that good science education is based on active, student-centered, and problem-based inquiry. They encourage children to learn about their physical environment using a framework involving exploration, observation, prediction, communication, and drawing conclusions. The children’s growing sense of the physical world is expanded through the use of materials, the classroom setup, and teacher facilitated discussions. 03 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 Millennial Enhanced Learning & Teaching - MELT The Millennium Schools has launched MELT (Millennial Enhanced Learning and Teaching) Program which caters all the needs of the 21st century learning and teaching. It encompasses the three basic areas i.e. Curriculum for the students, Technology for Classrooms and Training for Teachers. The program would enhance creativity and innovation amongst the students and teachers. It would help them communicate and collaborate with the students and teachers across the globe. This program explores pupils’ views of the use of information and communication technology (ICT) within subject teaching and learning. They would associate the use of digital literacy tools and resources with changes in working ambience and classroom relations, as well as with raised interest and increased motivation on their part. Finally, while pupils welcome opportunities for independent working mediated by ICT in which they would engage more directly with appropriately challenging tasks. Technology for classroom-Interactive board and windows based tablets for teachers, Cows computers on wheel are part of this initiative. Keeping in view the fast paced technological revolution, TMS has introduced the Interactive boards in all its classrooms, nationwide. Another step taken by TMS for technological advancements. All the teachers have been trained by the professionals for the usage of the Interactive boards. The ICT curriculum is not intended to stand alone, but rather to be infused within core courses and programs. Technology is taught within the context of applications. Activities, projects and problems that replicate real-life situations are effective resources for learning technology. Students will learn: 8 that, although technology is often complex, it is simply "a way of doing things” 8 about the impact of technologies in their lives and workplaces 8 how to determine which processes, tools and techniques to use, and when to use them 8 how to use and apply a variety of information and communication technologies to problem solving, decision making, inquiring and researching in the context of other subject matter. Learning Management System - LMS Millennium Learning Management System is an exciting new and innovative, cloud-based integrated MIS and learning platform, delivered as a single service. This makes it a far more powerful tool for schools as it enables all users such as students, teachers, school managers, Principals, and parents to access all the information and learning and teaching tools they need anytime, anywhere on any internet enabled device. Product Highlights l Cloud based software. l Collaborative. l Very simple to use and maintain. Problem Solving and Numeracy In TMS classroom, teacher enable children to understand and apply mathematical concepts, skills and processes effectively. We encourage them to make sense of their encounters with mathematics in their daily lives. We help them to recognize and use simple relationships and patterns, usage of numbers, identification of basic shapes and simple spatial concepts in daily experiences. 04 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 PARENTS AS PARTNERS Educating a child is most successful when families and schools work together in the best interest of the child. We welcome your input and assistance in educating your child; after all, you are your child’s first teacher. The goal of our program is to meet your child's needs not only intellectually, but also physically, socially, and emotionally. As a parent, you are an essential part of this mission: your child’s educators can do their job best when you work with them. We look forward to work with you to help your child learn, grow, and achieve at his or her highest potential. THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL AND ITS PREPARATION 8 The first day of school is a major milestone for kids and parents. It’s a launch of child’s formal learning career and needs lot of preparation. Start preparing your child for the BIG day! At least a week before school starts. 8 Try to modify your routines into a schedule that will work once school starts. 8 Kindly ensure that your child gets up at early hours, and sleeps early as well. 8 Encourage your child to be independent. 8 Help your child learn to manage and take care of the things they will use on a daily basis at school. 8 All parents are requested to take their children to a school visit. Children are most often upset when they’re unsure of what’s going to happen next, any possible experience to familiarize them is required. 8 Kids are sensitive to their parents’ feelings, once you get to school; keep it positive — even if you have a lump in your throat. 8 Talk to your child about going to school in a positive and enthusiastic manner. Talking about the school and its first day is good for your child’s smooth transition. 8 When the big day finally arrives, kindly do the following steps; set clothes out the night before, kids in bed at a reasonable hour, a favorite breakfast will set the mood, lunch box packed and alarms set to allow plenty of extra time for a calm, unhurried breakfast. Remember first week of school is an excellent opportunity to set a standard for the year. 8 Explain to your child that School is a safe and happy place and that there is always a teacher close by if they feel frightened or upset. 8 Discuss with your child all of the different things they will do at school and how much fun it will. 05 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 8 Try to spend some time with your child in the classroom to get him/her settled before you leave. If you can't stay, be sure to let the teacher know that your child may need some extra attention. 8 We remind parents to expect strange responses and need to adjust to the fact that the child will come home and say, ‘I played today,’ rather than ‘I did some arithmetic today. Remember Montessori years remains a stage-setter for later academics with learning how to learn as its main purpose. 8 Discuss with your child how they will use the bathrooms (toilets) at school. It is important that you explain to them that they will be allowed to go to the toilet whenever they need to, but they MUST ask the teacher before they go. Please pack a spare pair of shirt, underpants and appropriate colored school socks in the front pocket of your child’s school bag -’just in case’! IN-HOUSE MATERIAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL TIMINGS All In-house Material will be issued by child's Pre-Play Group: 09:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. respective Montessori Directress at the time Play Group: 08:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. of joining. Junior Montessori: 08:00 a.m. to 01:30 p.m. Advanced Montessori: 08:00 a.m. to 01:30 p.m. Note: School will observe the same pack up timings for all levels on Friday that is 12:00 noon. Play is the highest form of research.-ALBERT EINSTEIN. 06 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 SAFETY As a Millennial, your child will be in a secure, safe and stimulating environment, joining in with other children and adults to play work and learn together. To ensure the balance of security and privacy of your child TMS has taken explicit security measures. l Retired military personals as the Security guards. l Armed guard posts and pickets. l CCTV CAMERAS + DVR systems and IP based monitoring system . l Emergency alarm system and panic bell. l Metal detectors, biometric devices and Concertina Razor Wires. These measures that RMS is taking are all about keeping students safe. FORBIDDEN ITEMS 8 Sharp edged instruments / toys 8 Sports goods (bats, wickets, rackets, cork ball, hockey, toy sticks etc.) 8 Laser torches / safety pins / forks / needles 8 Match box / Lighter, all kinds of medicines 8 Mobile Phones/ I phone/ I pad / I pod POCKET MONEY / EXPENSIVE TOYS Children are strictly forbidden to carry any cash i.e. pocket money to school. Parents are requested to ensure that their child does not take along in his / her bag any amount of money to school. The school will not be responsible for the loss of money or any valuable item which your child will bring to school. CAFETERIA We at TMS maintain a high quality of food and perfect hygiene in our cafeterias. Food safety is given prior importance in all TMS campuses realizing the fact that children can be more susceptible to food borne illnesses. The school cafeteria provides the students as well as teachers with a variety of best quality food and snacks at reasonable prices which is closely monitored by the school administration. You can also send a nourishing meal with your child and quantity which does not go waste. Please avoid greasy food stuffs and candies. I). Your child's lunch box must be washed on daily basis. ii). It must have plastic fork, spoon and napkin. iii). Your child should have his / her own personal handkerchief for all purposes. Sample Menu: I). Ovaltine milk, egg / rainbow / tomato / beef or chicken sandwiches. ii). Nestle juice, French fries with bread. iii). Cocoa Milk with French toast. iv). Fresh fruit juice, biscuits / doughnuts / cookies / banana. v). Flavored milk, sponge cake and apple. 0057 TTrraannssffoorrmmiinngg sscchhoooollss iinnttoo lleeaarrnniinngg ccoommmmuunniittyy www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 PERSONAL HYGIENE A child's dress reflects his personality. Kindly ensure that he comes to school in properly ironed uniform according to his / her size. Girls' tunics must be of knee length. Hair should be neat and tidy. Nails short and clean. Daily bath must be ensured to maintain a healthy body. SPEECH THERAPY / COUNSELING SERVICES Parents of any child requiring speech therapy or counseling may formally inform the Directress so that we can arrange remedial courses through our speech therapist. TMS is proud to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of its Montessori Staff who have indeed proved their devotion to the noble profession of teaching. We have all trained Directresses with assistants to nurture the young saplings. SPORTS FACILITIES At the TMS Campuses, sports are an integral part of school activities, supported by necessary resources. There are separate grounds for cricket, hockey and football and separate courts for volleyball and basketball that are properly maintained. Among the indoor games, table tennis and badminton facilities are available. Qualified, male and female, physical training instructors supervise students' physical training and all classes have regular sports periods during the week. Play grounds are an essential resource which helps children adopt an active lifestyle and TMS provides an expansive playground that sustains a healthy lifestyle beyond the school curriculum. The sporting areas are well constructed and maintained with the best of props and essentials to host a variety of group and individual sports like Karate, Table Tennis, and Basketball. REGULAR ATTENDANCE Parents are reminded to submit a formal leave application in case a child is sick. Irregular attendance mars his growth progress in the class. Please avoid unnecessary absence. If your child is sick, please do not send them to preschool. A sick child will not benefit by being at preschool. In fact, it can be a frightening experience and may also spread illness to other children. If symptoms of illness are observed, or should a child become ill during preschool, a parent will be notified immediately. The child will be kept comfortable until a parent arrives. Children need to be free of vomiting, diarrhea, or fever for at least 24 hours before returning to preschool. NO medications will be given at preschool. VISITING & VISITORS Please feel free to visit the school at anytime. You are requested to give some settlement time & avoid frequent visits and stay in the school, this allows the children to get accustomed to their new environment, routine. All visitors should check in through the office, show their ID card & take visitor’s card before visiting any classroom or teacher. All visitors and substitute teachers must wear a badge for identification. 8 Students from other schools or younger brothers or sisters are not allowed to visit classrooms when the school is in session. 8 Parents or other individuals may not video tape classes. 08 Transforming schools into learning community www.millenniumschools.edu.pk TMS-FDP-003-2016-2017 FIELD TRIPS Field trips will be scheduled throughout the year. Parents will be notified prior to each field trip. If you do not want your child to go on a particular field trip, please inform the teacher that your child will be absent that day. Younger siblings of preschool students may not accompany the preschool on field trips. BIRTHDAYS Your child’s birthday is a great opportunity to bring along some favorite fast food to share with the whole group. We sing “Happy Birthday” to help make it a special day for your child. Please let the staff know beforehand so they can make necessary arrangements. COMMUNICATION We will provide relevant information, updates and notifications of special events via our monthly newsletter and other publications. Our notice boards are a great way to let you know what is happening at TMS, including our curriculum goals, activities and plans. Please read the school notice board and your child’s message book for the daily updates. IDENTIFICATION CARD Identification cards will be given to each parent of the child attending the TMS School. This identification cards is very important for safety. Children will be handed over to the parent/guardians only. In case you depute some other person, he must bring child’s identification card/ an authority letter duly attested by the guardian. Lost or broken Ids will be replaced at a cost to parents. PARENT TEACHER MEETINGS 8 Parents are informed of their child’s progress in various ways throughout the school year. 8 Teachers are available on daily basis to meet with parents, 15 minutes before and after the school. 8 Parent Teacher Meetings are held after every semester / term. However, Montessori parents are always welcome to meet the Montessori Branch Head as and when an urgent need arises. For your convenience, take prior appointment with the Branch Head on telephone. 8 All meetings will be held after school hours for security reasons. 8 To better accommodate parent’s schedules, meeting will be scheduled between 08:00 a.m. and 02:00 p.m. 8 A meeting may be requested, however, at any time either by school staff or upon parent request. 8 A progress report is given to parents after one term. 8 Web-sites provide valuable information and are updated on a regular basis. LIBRARY TMS school libraries are a catalyst for literacy, reading, teaching and scaffolding to inquire learning. It is our belief that libraries will always exist as places for learners to find information, resources, services, and instruction. To emphasize the importance of libraries, TMS has chosen to empower their millennials with language and literacy skills in the year 2016- 2017. 0059 TTrraannssffoorrmmiinngg sscchhoooollss iinnttoo lleeaarrnniinngg ccoommmmuunniittyy