Service-learning Log

Curro Sagewood is a school with many learners and many socio problems. One of the problem that I noticed is a problem of safety.

As part of my teaching experience and service-learning journey, I took on a social action project focused on the safety of learners, particularly addressing the issue of running in the corridors at school. Grade 7 learners often transition from one class to another with an energy that, while admirable, can create safety concerns, especially in crowded hallways. My goal was to create a safer school environment by raising awareness among learners and staff, implementing preventive strategies, and ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.

I started by conducting a short survey to gauge the level of awareness among learners about the risks of running in the corridors. The results showed that while learners knew running was discouraged, they didn’t fully grasp the potential hazards. To address this, I organized short talks during assembly and classroom sessions, focusing on how accidents, like tripping or colliding, can result in injury. The use of visual aids, such as posters and videos, helped reinforce the message.

Working with teachers and school management, we developed a set of clear, visible safety guidelines that were placed throughout the corridors. These included reminders about walking at all times and respecting personal space in high-traffic areas. Additionally, we incorporated these safety rules into classroom discussions, fostering a culture of accountability.

After launching the awareness campaign, we implemented a peer-monitoring system where learners were encouraged to remind each other to walk safely. This approach empowered students to take ownership of their safety and the safety of others. Feedback from teachers indicated a notable decrease in corridor accidents, making the initiative both effective and impactful.

This project not only gave me the chance to make a tangible impact on the school but also changed me personally. Service-learning has taught me the importance of empathy, understanding the needs of learners and acting with care for their well-being. It also strengthened my ability to collaborate with various stakeholders, from learners to staff, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. I have become more patient and solution-oriented, traits that I will carry forward in both my personal and professional life.

From a professional standpoint, this experience expanded my understanding of how to integrate learning with real-world problem-solving. I’ve gained new skills in project planning, public speaking, and creating educational materials that engage learners beyond the classroom. Furthermore, the project taught me the value of proactive classroom management, that safety and discipline are part of building a positive learning environment.

The positive feedback from learners and staff has been encouraging. Teachers have expressed that learners are now more conscious of their behavior in corridors, contributing to a safer and more respectful school culture. The fact that learners took on the role of peer monitors means that the project has the potential to be self-sustaining. By instilling a sense of responsibility among the learners, I am confident that this initiative will continue to benefit the school long after my project has ended. The guidelines and safety measures are now part of the school’s formal rules, ensuring long-term implementation.