Beau Vallon primary receives new batch of musical instruments |10 February 2022

The handover ceremony (Photo: Thomas Meriton)

• Boost to performing arts section of arts curriculum

It has been proven that children learn in many different ways, while music allows them to express themselves in a unique way, which motivates their learning and helps build their self-confidence.

Since music is a universal language, it helps children connect to other cultures and understand the world around them.

With that concept in mind, the Beau Vallon primary school yesterday received a batch of musical instruments which will boost the school’s performing arts programme, thus encouraging more pupils to develop an interest in the subject which is part of the national school curriculum.

The donation of four guitars and a keyboard is a gift from parent James Vidot who was being represented by her young daughter Lilia Freminot.

Accepting the gift in the presence of school council chairman Justin Freminot and music teacher Conrad Payet, head teacher Juliana Agathine noted that it comes at an opportune time since it is the school’s policy to ensure that under the arts curriculum, all pupils get the chance to engage in music classes which fall under performing – a section of the curriculum.

This, she said, eases the various competency evaluations of pupils to assess their various abilities, other than academic performances.

Mrs Agathine said the donation is welcomed since it will also boost the school’s capacity to continue taking part in various local cultural activities and competitions where the pupils have excelled.

She thanked the sponsor for his generosity and invited more people within the community to come forward and give a helping hand in the education and development of the children.

On behalf of the school council, Mr Freminot noted that since the school has been very actively taking part in many contests organised by the various ministries whereby in many instances they came out as winners, it is felt appropriate for them to receive these instruments which can contribute towards their enhancement.

He also invited other donors, especially parents, to come forward and be more active in the development and education of their children.

Studies have shown that quality, child-centred music lessons at school can develop children’s brains, increase IQ (intelligence quotient) and develop children’s ability to problem-solving. Many studies have shown that high quality musical learning has profound benefits for children in terms of wellbeing, academic achievement and the development of emotional and social skills.

It has also shown that music activities in early years facilitate many different aspects of development and learning, providing one of the most effective influences on young people’s brain development at this key age.

Roland Duval