We are excited to share that we have continued to develop our partnerships with the Infant and Basic Schools in Kingston and Portmore as well as Child Care Centres in Jamaica for more than 23 years. As previously mentioned over the years, we have come down with many students from various programs within the Community Services and Health Sciences department, but it is the School of Early Childhood that continues to stay connected with Shortwood Teachers’ College, The University of the West Indies and The Early Childhood Commission. These partnerships are an integral part of the experience for the students as it gives them many insights as to the education system in Jamaica through hands on experiences as well as workshops.
Partnerships like these only provide positive outcomes that come from experience. Working together is truly rewarding for all.
This year you will notice that we have a small group of students from our School of Early Childhood participating in this project and they will be working with children 2.5 – 5 years of age in the Bloom Early Childhood Centre of Excellence, house on the University of West Indies Campus.
While this is a small group, they worked extremely hard to get here. It not only takes dedication and appreciation for all children, but a strong focus on fundraising (thank you to all for your ongoing support as it is truly appreciated), team building and learning about the Jamaican culture.
Through our weekly meetings, they have learned about the different ways in which curriculum can be implemented and the importance of bridging teacher-based learning with play-based learning. The students have been busy planning curriculum based on themes for the month but will also incorporate play-based activities to enhance the learning and give children an opportunity to explore resources that will promote problem solving, critical thinking skills as well as social and peer interactions. While in Jamaica, the students will also be reflecting on Ontario’s pedagogy of How Does Learning Happen? along with ELECT (Early Learning for Every Child Today), which supports observations of children’s interests and development.
The picture above is of the students standing outside the Wisdom Tree at Shortwood on their first day of school.
Please continue to read this page as the students will be providing a weekly update as to their experience.
Weekly Summaries from students
Weekly Summary #1: Saniya Dhamani
First Week in Jamaica!
We have finally arrived in Jamaica, and it truly feels like paradise! The mountains, waters, trees, and the warmth of the people have already captured my heart. This place is more than beautiful—it’s unforgettable.
Our journey began on Friday Jan. 3rd with a lovely dinner. The team spent the evening sharing meaningful conversations, learning about our diverse backgrounds, and discovering the unique strengths that each of us brings. It was the perfect way to start this incredible experience.
The weekend was all about exploration and discovery. We visited the Blue Mountain Hills where we tasted freshly brewed coffee and learned about its rich history. Of course, a trip to Jamaica wouldn’t be complete without a Jamaican patty, which did not disappoint! Sunday, we had the chance to participate in a local church service, which gave us a glimpse of the spiritual side of this vibrant culture.
Monday was our first day at Bloom Early Learning Centre, Kingston. As we stepped in, I could see a mix of nervous and excited faces — including my own! But the energy of the children and the staff was contagious, and we quickly found ourselves integrating into this new environment. We are learning so much from the children here. Their curiosity, laughter, and unique ways of seeing the world are teaching us to slow down and appreciate the little things. They show us the value of patience, connection, and kindness. Every day brings something new.
We are soaking in the local culture! So far, we’ve had the chance to try ackee and saltfish, along with fried dumplings and other local delicacies. Each meal has been a celebration of the island’s rich culinary heritage, bringing us closer to its culture.
This week hasn’t been without its challenges, but every moment has been worth it. I have grown as an individual and as part of a team, finding strength and support in one another. Jamaica has already made a lasting impact on my heart, and I’m excited for the many memories still waiting to be created.
Saniya Dhamani
Weekly Summary #2: Viviana Benavidez
Second Week in Jamaica
After a week filled with learning and collaboration in placement and nightly meetings, we visited Bob Marley’s Museum, where we discovered the true meaning behind his famous song “One Love.” We reflected on the importance of loving ourselves and, in turn, expressing that same love to others. We also enjoyed climbing the breathtaking Dunn’s River Falls, an exotic location where we experienced the unique beauty and power of the falls flowing into the sparkling, clear sea waters. It truly is a spectacular sight!
On Sunday, we attended a welcoming local church service. It allowed us to connect with the community in a meaningful way. It was a comforting time, and we expressed gratitude for the incredible privilege of being here.
Our weekdays are busy; we spend most of our time working and planning for the days ahead. We are dedicated to contributing to the program at Bloom and are learning from the children, their families, the educators, and our own team.
Our hearts have already been captivated by the children we serve. Witnessing their curiosity, creativity, and ability to learn and develop their skills is our daily reward. Engaging in conversations with the families to get to know them better and diving into deeper discussions as a team is important to us, especially since we know how quickly time passes. Each evening, we look forward to our team meetings, where we share our questions, challenges, and successes from the day. Every day is a learning opportunity; we support each other, laugh, and strive to grow both as educators and as human beings. I am grateful for the Jamaica team I am working with.
We have enjoyed the warm weather, along with the gentle breeze and stunning sunsets this beautiful country offers. We have tried various local foods, visited markets, and learned more about Jamaica and its beautiful people.
I am forever grateful to be here, and I know there is so much more to see in the land where “Out of Many, One People.”
Viviana Benavidez.
