December, the rains will soon be upon us. I love this time of year. The plants are beginning to flourish again, and the dull brown of the dry season is slowly turning green again. This also means the wildlife is becoming more visible in and around the campus.

The subject of this month’s blog is something that many have not heard of or considered. In educational circles it is known as “The Hidden Curriculum.”

The hidden curriculum consists of all the things that pupils are taught, which do not come under any of the accepted subject headings. These are things, which are often taught without lesson plans or through specific lessons and may be seen as supporting or reinforcing many of those things that are part of everyday life, both in school and at home.

In general, these aspects of education come under three main headings and are taught alongside all academic subjects to support learning.

Teaching of Norms: This involves a reinforcement of home cultural norms but is also extended to include the norms of behaviour within a school context. Socialisation, the set of behaviours needed to function in a large group and interact positively with your peers, is a large part of the hidden curriculum in the primary school years. Pupils are taught to share resources, to consider the feelings of others, to take turns and respect others, all as aspects of our norms in school. This is also the main function of our “Golden Rules,” which are guidelines to the behavioural expectations within the school.

Teaching of Values: The Core Values of Mzuzu International Academy are as follows:

Excellence and Professionalism                 Critical Thinking & Integrity

Self-reliance & Versatility                                          Community & Global Awareness

Most of these values are taught through the hidden curriculum. There are high expectations for behaviour, and attitude to work, which are highlighted in assemblies and through our Star of the Week awards. Critical thinking is encouraged, through discussion, honesty/integrity are valued highly, and always modelled by the teaching staff. Self-reliance is encouraged, as is resilience. Community and Global awareness are addressed through special day celebrations and the work that leads up to them.

Teaching of Beliefs: As a multi-faith school, this does not include specific religious education but does emphasise the need to recognise and respect diversity, cultural differences, and the exercise of empathy towards those who may not think the same way. The emphasis of the school’s mission is an international one. As such, we celebrate differences in culture, belief, and nationality.

As can be seen, the hidden curriculum of a school is a direct reflection of its ethos and is wide ranging. Some aspects will be taught for a specific purpose, others are an intrinsic part of the life of the school. All must play a part in providing children with the skills and tools to live in a wider world. Mr. Lewis

 (Flap-Necked Chameleon, Long-horn Beetle & Baboon Spider. All residents of MIA)