About Vesturbæjarskóli
Vesturbæjarskóli is a primary school for children in grades 1 through 7. The motto of the school is respect, well-being, and success. Using the motto as a guide, we prioritize kindness, warmth, and caring for the welfare of students and thereby foster a positive school spirit. Our staff is committed to creating a positive and constructive environment where everyone feels good.
Diverse teaching methods
We aim to address the diverse needs of children by offering a variety of teaching methods and materials in integrated learning, including choice, theme work, and outdoor instruction to name a few. Our long-standing tradition of guidance learning allows children to regularly review their learning with their teachers, to hone in on personal educational goals and direction. We intentionally cultivate skills, abilities, knowledge, and attitudes that will enable children to be critical, active, and competent members of society.
Team teaching
In team teaching, we emphasize collaboration between students and teachers. Teachers unite in their strengths, abilities, interest, and resources to share collective responsibility for students. Professional teams provide teachers with the opportunity to develop and learn in their profession. School development is about making schools even better places for students to learn and grow. Mixing children across age groups strengthens their social skills as they learn to work together in diverse groups and adapt to change.
Here is an article describing the approach of Vesturbæjarskóli teachers in implementing team teaching.
Creative thinking and initiative
We believe it's crucial to foster creative thinking and initiative, as well as offer children various opportunities for creativity and expression. Boosting a child's self-image, resilience, faith in their own abilities while encouraging them to utilize their talents in a creative environment is vital. Children learn to use a variety of media in their learning, enhancing their information and media literacy. In our maker spaces, children learn by doing, working on ideas and projects they care about and find meaningful. We strive to provide our students with an environment conducive to nurturing and encouraging learning.
Key competences enhancement
We focus on developing key competencies in our students, like communication abilities, critical thinking, collaboration, self-awareness, responsibility, independence, and initiative. Every classroom has a home corner with a homely atmosphere that builds trust and provides safety, as well as promotes well-being and open discussions. In this environment, students are given the opportunity to express themselves and learn from each other. We strive to create an environment where children are happy and thrive in school, making academic progress. Each child’s experience is unique and by giving attention and space to each child, we assist them in discovering their strengths.
UNICEF Rights Respecting School
We follow the UNICEF Rights Respecting School model, it's goal being a democratic learning environment where children learn about Human Rights and develop mutual respect. The basic premises of the Child Rights Convention serve as the starting point for all decisions made in school activities and are reflected in the interactions of everyone in the school community.
