In the bustling city-state of Singapore, education is a top priority for both the government and parents alike. The Singaporean education system is renowned for its rigour and high standards, often leading to students from Singapore outperforming their global peers in international assessments. However, this success is not solely due to the quality of schools and teachers. A significant factor contributing to this achievement is the level of parental involvement in their children’s education. This involvement is particularly crucial when it comes to the Intelligent Quotient Talent Search (IQTS), a programme designed to identify and nurture gifted students. Here are five tips for parents to effectively engage in their child’s education journey with an IQTS.
Understanding the IQTS
The first step for parents is to understand what the IQTS is and how it works. The IQTS is a unique programme that identifies students with high intellectual potential and provides them with opportunities to further develop their talents. It’s not just about academic prowess; the IQTS also recognises talents in areas such as leadership, creativity, and problem-solving.
Understanding the IQTS can help parents to better support their children throughout the programme. For instance, knowing that the IQTS values a variety of talents can encourage parents to foster a balanced development in their children, rather than focusing solely on academic achievements.
How the IQTS Works
The IQTS uses a combination of tests, observations, and teacher recommendations to identify gifted students. These students are then offered a range of programmes and resources to help them reach their full potential. The IQTS is not a one-size-fits-all programme; it’s tailored to the individual needs and talents of each student.
As a parent, understanding how the IQTS works can help you to better prepare your child for the programme. For example, knowing that teacher recommendations play a part in the selection process can encourage you to foster a good relationship between your child and their teacher.
Supporting Your Child’s Learning
Once your child is part of the IQTS, it’s important to support their learning journey. This doesn’t mean doing their homework for them or pushing them to study all the time. Instead, it’s about providing a supportive environment where they can explore their interests and develop their talents.
One way to do this is by encouraging your child to take part in activities that align with their talents. For instance, if your child shows a knack for problem-solving, consider enrolling them in a coding class. If they have a talent for leadership, look for opportunities where they can take on leadership roles, such as joining the student council.
Encouraging a Growth Mindset
Another crucial aspect of supporting your child’s learning is encouraging a growth mindset. This is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. A growth mindset can help your child to see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than obstacles to success.
As a parent, you can foster a growth mindset in your child by praising their effort and persistence, rather than their innate talent or intelligence. For example, instead of saying “You’re so smart,” say “You worked really hard on that project. I’m proud of you.”
Communicating with Teachers
Effective communication with your child’s teachers is another key aspect of parental involvement in the IQTS. Regular communication can help you to stay informed about your child’s progress and any challenges they may be facing. It can also provide an opportunity for you to share any insights or concerns you may have about your child’s learning.
When communicating with teachers, it’s important to be open and respectful. Remember that you and the teacher are on the same team, working towards the best interests of your child. So, instead of blaming the teacher for any issues, try to work together to find solutions.
Attending Parent-Teacher Meetings
One of the best ways to communicate with teachers is by attending parent-teacher meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity for you to discuss your child’s progress, ask questions, and share your insights. They also allow you to build a positive relationship with the teacher, which can benefit your child’s learning experience.
When attending parent-teacher meetings, come prepared with any questions or concerns you may have. Also, be open to feedback from the teacher. They spend a lot of time with your child and can provide valuable insights into their learning and behaviour.
Encouraging Independence
While parental involvement is important, it’s also crucial to encourage independence in your child. This can help them to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and self-management, which are all valued in the IQTS.
Encouraging independence doesn’t mean leaving your child to fend for themselves. Instead, it’s about providing guidance and support while allowing them to take responsibility for their own learning. For instance, instead of solving a difficult homework problem for your child, guide them through the problem-solving process.
Setting Boundaries
Part of encouraging independence is setting boundaries. This can help your child to understand their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions. For example, you might set a rule that homework must be completed before they can play video games. This can teach your child about time management and prioritisation, skills that are useful not just in school, but in life.
Setting boundaries also means respecting your child’s autonomy. For instance, allow them to make choices about their learning, such as what projects to work on or what books to read. This can help them to feel more engaged and motivated in their learning.
Staying Involved Without Overstepping
Finally, it’s important to stay involved in your child’s education without overstepping. This means providing support and guidance, but also respecting your child’s autonomy and independence. It’s a delicate balance, but one that can greatly benefit your child’s learning and development.
One way to do this is by showing interest in your child’s learning, without being overly controlling or pushy. For instance, you might ask about what they’re learning in school, but avoid dictating how they should study or what they should learn.
Respecting Your Child’s Space
Another aspect of staying involved without overstepping is respecting your child’s space. This means giving them the freedom to explore their interests and make their own mistakes. Remember, mistakes are a natural part of learning and can provide valuable lessons.
Respecting your child’s space also means understanding that they may need some time alone to relax and recharge. Just like adults, children can feel overwhelmed by too much pressure or stimulation. So, give them some space and understand that it’s okay for them to take a break sometimes.
In conclusion, parental involvement in the Singapore education system, particularly with an IQTS, is a multifaceted endeavour. It involves understanding the IQTS, supporting your child’s learning, communicating effectively with teachers, encouraging independence, and staying involved without overstepping. By following these five tips, you can help your child to thrive in their education journey with the IQTS.
Empower Your Teaching Career with iQTS at UWE
As you support your child’s educational journey with the IQTS, consider enhancing your own professional development with The IQTS at UWE. Our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme is designed to elevate your teaching credentials, ensuring you meet the high standards of international schools. With the iQTS, you can expect a significant increase in interview callbacks, promotion rates, and salary. Join a vibrant professional community, gain a deep understanding of global education systems, and enjoy the flexibility of online study to balance your career advancement with your commitments. Make Your Next Step towards a more fulfilling teaching career with the iQTS at UWE.