3 minute read
Strokes of Courage: Igniting Creative Sparks on the Learning Journey
Strokes of Courage: Igniting Creative Sparks on the Learning Journey
By Ms. Lisa West ’99, Integrated Arts Department Head
In the world of education, courage is the silent hero that propels students on their unique learning journeys. At HTS, it takes a myriad of forms—as diverse as the students themselves. But it is always a value that sparks their inner fire; helping them to overcome challenges, embrace new experiences, and explore possibilities that they never imagined.
Henri Matisse famously said “creativity takes courage”, and this is evident in our Integrated Arts classes with each brush stroke, musical note, stage choice or camera angle seeing students embrace risk. Such courage can serve as the catalyst for tech innovators launching groundbreaking ideas, content creators sharing their authentic selves, and future doctors problem-solving through complex surgeries.
At each stage of their educational journey, students cultivate the courage to confront and surmount obstacles, with teachers and professional artists serving as their guides— encouraging them to embrace the discomfort of any trials they encounter along the way.
In the Lower School, students demonstrate courage in our integrated music and drama program led by Mr. Zero. Students in his Grade 4 class are learning to trust, collaborate and take risks through games, activities, and authentic performances—like our annual Christmas concert at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts. “I have been courageous when I perform because I am showing myself to others,” explains Austin Wang in Grade 4, reflecting on his time in the integrated music and drama program.
In Middle School, the buzz of laughter fills the air as students and teachers put on the Middle School play. While preparing the sets, students break all the rules and toss paint at a canvas in the style of Jackson Pollock. Sylvia Liao, a Grade 7 student, explains that she joined the crew this year for the chance to make new friends and step outside her comfort zone. “Painting sets and learning lighting cues are an opportunity for me to learn different skills and push the boundaries of learning outside a classroom,” explains Syliva.
In the Senior School, students partake in field trips and collaborate with professional artists to enhance their learning. Through interaction with actors like Hailey Lewis and Jennifer Thiessen, from the Mirvish stage production of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”, students are able to gain insight into the process of refining work for public showcase. Grade 11 student Bethany Waisman reflects on how she was able to discover the value of risk-taking and exploration through the HTS Drama department. “This experience prepared me for a future in Health Sciences and Medical school, where creativity and confidence are essential,” explains Bethany.
“In healthcare, thinking outside of the box, taking calculated risks and communicating effectively is vital—and drama has given me the tools to excel.”
The range of authentic learning experiences, opportunity for public showcase, and working alongside professional guest artists in our Integrated Arts program is where courage and risk-taking are ignited. It reminds us that there is no one-size-fitsall definition for the strength it takes to walk the path of learning at HTS.
… courage can serve as the catalyst for tech innovators, content creators and future doctors.
