F.I.S.H. readies students for high school

A group of students from various Corporate Area schools has been handpicked to participate in a purposeful three-day workshop, aimed at facilitating their smooth transition into high-school life.

The driving force behind this transformative initiative is the Foundation for International Self Help Development (F.I.S.H. Clinic), situated on Gordon Town Road in St Andrew. The workshop is meticulously designed to cater to the needs of students who have recently concluded their Primary Exit Profile (PEP) exam and graduated from August Town Primary, Hope Valley Experimental, and Mona Heights Primary schools.

Bette Grant Otunla, a director at the clinic, exudes optimism about the workshop and its potential impact on these students.

"The three-day workshop is being held because we have heard from guidance counsellors that many grade-six children find it hard to make the transition from primary school to high school. This three-day workshop will teach them coping skills and help them develop resilience to meet the challenges they will face," Grant Otunla told THE ST AR.

A comprehensive range of topics will be covered during the workshop, encompassing effective communication, conflict resolution, decision-making, bullying, cybersecurity, anger management, and human trafficking.

At the same time, Dr Beverly McKenzie, an experienced counselling expert, will actively engage with the parents of the participating children.

"We are offering parents valuable insights on how to actively support their children through the crucial transition from primary to high school. This entails fostering efficient communication with both their children and their peers while also maintaining a vibrant connection with the school environment. Parents hold a pivotal role, and their involvement is of utmost significance. While schools provide orientations, parents' consistent presence, particularly in nurturing open dialogues with their children is key to creating a safe and nurturing environment. Positive parenting stands as a cornerstone in cultivating such an atmosphere," McKenzie emphasised.

While stating that three days is just the beginning, McKenzie affirmed the F.I.S.H. Clinic initiative's commitment to an ongoing counselling approach.

"This workshop serves as a launchpad for the students' journey. Our ongoing engagement with parents will aid them in identifying potential signs that necessitate counselling intervention if their child demonstrates behavioural concerns. This is merely the initial phase, our involvement will continue throughout the school year," McKenzie said.