As CPS Global School, Thirumazhisai, welcomed educators for the new academic year, the first week of orientation set the tone for a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning. Carefully designed to inspire, align, and empower faculty members, the week brought together professional development, reflective practice, and strategic planning.
On Monday, June 1st, the teachers began the journey with a “Welcome Back – Meet & Greet” session led by the Head of School. This was followed by a comprehensive introduction to “The Learning Sprint,” also facilitated by the Head of School. Throughout the day, the faculty participated in an intensive deep dive into the programme, which culminated in a dynamic session where departments engaged in redesigning and presenting “The Learning Sprint” to foster a cohesive vision across the school.
Tuesday, June 2nd, shifted the focus toward individual and professional growth. After a morning mindfulness session to centre the team, Mr. Manoj Keshav led an insightful workshop on Emotional Intelligence. The afternoon was dedicated to practical application, with HODs guiding curriculum mapping in their respective venues, ensuring pedagogical alignment across departments.
On Wednesday, June 3rd, the agenda moved towards cognitive development and innovative pedagogy. Mr. Karunai Prakash facilitated engaging sessions on Critical Thinking and collaboration, challenging the teachers to refine how these essential skills are fostered in the classroom. The day also included an exploration of “Failing Forward” with the Head of School, followed by a stimulating presentation on “The Catalyst Classroom by Mr. Sathya Moorthy and Ms. Mahalakshmi featured a series of engaging microteaching sessions. As part of this, Ms. Mahalakshmi demonstrated strategies for teaching writer’s effect to primary students, modelling practical approaches to developing analytical and language skills in young learners.
Thursday, June 4th, emphasised strategic planning and perspective. Dr. Niranjana and Ms. Prashitha led an engaging session titled “From Perspectives to Knowledge,” where teachers explored the relationship between Theory of Knowledge (TOK) and Global Perspectives through a contemporary stimulus text and reflective activities. The session encouraged participants to examine how beliefs, assumptions, language, evidence, emotions, and personal experiences shape understanding and influence the construction of knowledge. Through guided meta-thinking and structured analysis, teachers reflected on claims, perspectives, evidence, and implications, experiencing first-hand how critical inquiry can deepen learning and classroom discussions. The day also featured further Catalyst Classroom microteaching sessions. Ms. Herlina demonstrated effective strategies for teaching Learning Bearings to middle school students, showcasing ways to help learners understand and navigate their learning journey. Ms. Shri Ranjani modelled an engaging Early Years Mathematics classroom, illustrating age-appropriate pedagogical approaches and student-centred learning experiences. The afternoon was dedicated to programme-level meetings, allowing teams from Primary/DP and EY/Middle School/IG to align their specific goals under the guidance of their respective Team Leaders and Coordinators
Finally, Friday, June 5th, provided the space for crucial departmental synergy. After intensive Department Meetings in the morning, the afternoon offered a creative shift with an Arts Workshop led by the art department. The session served as a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience for the teachers, providing a welcome opportunity to unwind, express their creativity, and focus on their well-being after an intensive week of professional learning and planning. The day concluded with practical training on the Educloud platform by the ICT team, followed by an HR session with Ms. Priya, ensuring that all operational and administrative preparations were firmly in place.
On Day 6, Ms. Kumud Kedia facilitated an enriching workshop on Active Teaching and Learning, designed specifically for teachers. The session introduced a range of engaging strategies, including Thinking Routines, Chat Stations, Snowball Toss, Gallery Walks, Reflection Activities, and Exit Slips. Teachers actively participated in these activities, gaining first-hand experience of how they promote collaboration, critical thinking, student voice, and meaningful reflection. The workshop highlighted the importance of creating learner-centered classrooms where students are actively involved in constructing knowledge. It provided practical and adaptable strategies that educators can implement across subjects to enhance engagement, inquiry, and deeper learning experiences.
The orientation week successfully combined reflection, collaboration, innovation, and strategic planning, equipping educators with the tools, mindset, and shared vision needed to begin the academic year with purpose and excellence.
