Student Voice
Why Student Voice Matters at MSB
In today’s evolving educational landscape, there is an increasing emphasis on placing students at the heart of their learning experience. While students possess knowledge, creativity, and a forward-thinking approach, they often lack meaningful opportunities to actively shape and influence their educational journey.
Student voice encompasses the expression of students' thoughts and values to educational leaders, who actively listen and make informed decisions based on these inputs. This practice is essential in fostering a positive impact on all stakeholders. Below are some successful examples of how prioritizing student voice is making a meaningful difference at MSB:
- Amplifying Student Voice: By including inclusive student voice programs, educators can promote equity throughout MSB.
- Enhancing Learning: When students have a say in their academic journey, they are more likely to thrive.
- Improving Mental Health: School is not just about academics; it's also about developing crucial social and emotional skills, including managing mental health and building emotional intelligence.
- Empowering Student Council: Student councils give students a platform to voice their opinions and take action on their ideas.
- Student-Led Conferences: Student-led conferences allow students to actively participate in shaping their school experiences, unlike traditional parent-teacher meetings.
Some of the student- led initiatives at MSB are:
- Toastmasters
- Model United Nations (MUN)
- Student Council
- Break Sale
- Talk Show on Environment Awareness and Plastic Reduction by Year 8 for FS2
- Role Play on Health and Safety by Year 8 for Year 6
- Bez Kids Entrepreneur Expo
- Digital Awareness Campaign
- Student Mentors for First Lego League & Chevrons Readers Cup
- Inter-MSB Education Summit
- MSB Thanksgiving (Gratitude Drive)
Emphasising student voice at MSB is vital for cultivating an inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environment for all students.
MUN (Model United Nations)
The Model United Nations (MUN) club at MSB is a student-led initiative spearheaded by Maria Ezzi and Yusuf Kagalwala. Every Friday the members meet up to hone their critical thinking skills, debating skills and engage with issues in the real world.
The main purpose of this club is to unearth the talents, and hone the critical thinking skills of the students at MSB.
Through weekly stay backs, students discussed and debated on many key and or mundane topics of today’s world. The challenge was to get students to formulate an opinion and to look at things from a broader and more creative perspective.
In their very first year of formation, the students participated in 2 MUNs hosted by Apple International and another one hosted by Al Salam Community School. We at MSB remain committed to this cause of enhancing our students' understanding and engagement with the real world.
Toastmasters Program at MSB Private School
The Toastmasters program is a globally recognized initiative aimed at helping individuals develop their public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. At MSB, the Toastmasters program provides students with a valuable platform to build confidence and enhance their speaking abilities.
Benefits of the Program for Students
Enhanced Public
Speaking Skills
Students learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently in front of an audience, a vital skill for both academic success and future professional endeavors.
Improved
Communication
The program emphasizes effective listening, providing constructive feedback, and mastering the art of engaging in meaningful conversations, thereby fostering stronger interpersonal relationships.
Leadership
Development
By taking on various roles and responsibilities within the club, students cultivate essential leadership qualities, learning how to guide and inspire their peers.
Confidence Building
Regular practice, coupled with supportive feedback, helps students overcome the fear of public speaking, significantly boosting their self-esteem and poise.
Critical Thinking
The process of crafting speeches and responding to impromptu topics enhances students' ability to think quickly and organize their thoughts in a coherent manner.
Success of the Toastmasters Club at MSB School
With the guidance of English language teachers, the Toastmasters Club at MSB School has flourished, encouraging students to express themselves confidently. Ahmed Safri of Year 11, the school's cultural ambassador, spearheaded the program as the club's President. His dedication to mentoring members has enhanced their communication skills and boosted his own leadership abilities.
The club’s influence is evident in the increased confidence of its members, who now excel in presentations, external contests, and leadership roles within the school.
Testimonials from Club Members
Here are some reflections from our students about their experiences with the Toastmasters Club:
Being part of the Toastmasters Club has been a life-changing experience. I used to be so nervous speaking in front of people, but now I look forward to it!
Abdultaiyeb Jawadwala
Year 8
The feedback and support from Ms. Rashida and Ms. Fatema have been incredible. I've learned so much about effective communication and leadership.
Zahra Galabhai
Toastmasters has helped me in so many ways, from improving my speech delivery to boosting my overall confidence. It's been amazing!
Haider Kallawala
Year 8
Join the Toastmasters Club
We invite all students to join the Toastmasters Club and take advantage of this incredible opportunity to develop essential life skills. For more information, please contact Ms. Fatema Jamali, or visit our club meetings held every alternate Friday, in the Girls Assembly Hall.
Email ID: toastmasters@msbdubai.com
Through the Science of Home: Integrating Art and Science
In our curriculum, students explore various aspects of art and science through the science of home.
- Art: Students learn to manage resources skillfully, which fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Science: This subject enhances family life by providing valuable knowledge that students can apply in everyday situations.
Students engage in practical activities such as cooking, baking, stitching, grooming, and cleaning. These experiences not only develop essential life skills but also encourage a deeper understanding of how art and science intersect in our daily lives.