Learning through play in an international bilingual school: the case of the Saint Dominique Savio School

Modern education is constantly seeking to innovate and adapt to the diverse needs of students.

Learning through play is one teaching method that is gaining in popularity, particularly in international bilingual schools such as Saint Dominique Savio. Combining fun and learning, this approach not only engages students, but also enhances their linguistic and intercultural skills.

In this article, we explore the principles of learning through play, its benefits, and some concrete examples of its application in a bilingual school.

What is learning through play?

Learning through play is based on the idea that play is a natural and effective way of learning. This method is inspired by the theories of great educationalists such as Jean Piaget, who emphasised the importance of play in children's cognitive development. In a school context, this means that play activities are integrated into the learning process, facilitating the acquisition of new knowledge while developing social skills. During the week, play activities take place mainly in the afternoon, during outdoor classes or forest school.

The principles of learning through play

• Interactivity: Students actively participate in their learning, interacting with their peers and the teacher.
• Motivation: Games arouse students' interest and curiosity, making them more inclined to learn.
• Experiential learning: Students learn by doing, which enhances memorization and understanding.
• Flexibility: Games can be adapted to different skill levels and learning styles.
• Collaboration: The game encourages teamwork, strengthening social and emotional skills.

The benefits of learning through play

Strengthening language skills

In a bilingual school like Saint Dominique Savio, learning through play plays a crucial role in the development of language skills. Role-playing, for example, allows pupils to practise the language in an authentic and contextual way. Pupils are often required to express themselves in the target language, which encourages natural immersion and improves their linguistic fluency.

Developing social skills

Collaborative games encourage students to work together, share ideas and solve problems collectively. This not only develops their interpersonal skills, but also their ability to communicate in a multicultural environment. At Saint Dominic Savio School, where pupils from different backgrounds live together, this skill is essential.

Stimulating creativity

Play provides a free space where students can express their creativity. Whether through construction games, role-playing or artistic activities, pupils learn to think outside the box. This creativity is invaluable in a constantly changing world, where innovation is key.

Improved motivation and commitment

Students are more motivated to learn when they are having fun. Learning through play creates a positive learning environment where mistakes are seen as an integral part of the process. This reduces learning anxiety and encourages students to take risks.

Concrete examples at Saint Dominique Savio School

• Role-playing in the classroom

At Saint Dominique Savio, teachers regularly incorporate role-playing into their lessons. For example, during a lesson on commerce, pupils can simulate a market where they have to negotiate prices using the target language. This method allows them not only to practise the language, but also to understand economic dynamics in a fun way. Animal therapy is another innovative example of playful contact with animals.

• Project-based activities

Learning through play is not limited to simple games. At Saint Dominique Savio, collaborative projects involve games that stimulate critical thinking. For example, students might work in small groups to design an educational board game on a topic of study. This involves research, planning and presentation, while making learning fun.

• Fun events

The school regularly organises theme days where learning through play is at the heart of the activities. For example, a day on cultural heritage could include traditional games from different countries, allowing pupils to discover other cultures while playing. This enhances their intercultural understanding and open-mindedness.

• The challenges of learning through play

  Despite its many advantages, learning through play also presents challenges. Firstly, it can be difficult for some teachers to design play activities that are both fun and educational. What's more, it's essential to strike a balance between play and academic objectives, to ensure that students really do acquire the necessary skills.

   

• Teacher training

  It is crucial that teachers are trained in game-based learning methodologies. This requires an investment of time and resources to develop appropriate teaching skills. Exchanging practices between teachers in the school or in the Savio network encourages the implementation of these practices.

   

• Classroom management

  Play activities can sometimes lead to disruptive behaviour. Teachers must be prepared to manage these situations while maintaining a productive learning environment.

   

• Skills assessment

  Assessing the skills acquired through play can be complex. Teachers need to develop assessment methods that take account of progress made in a playful context.

Conclusion

Learning through play, applied in the context of an international bilingual school such as Saint Dominic Savio, has many benefits. Not only does this approach promote language acquisition, but it also develops social, creative and critical skills. Although challenges remain, the benefits of a playful and interactive education are undeniable. By integrating play into the learning process, Saint Dominic Savio offers its students a stimulating and enriching environment, preparing the next generation for a diverse and interconnected world.