Testimonial – Job Shadowing in Slovakia

During my Erasmus+ job shadowing opportunity at St John Baptist Church Primary and Kindergarten School in Partizanske, Slovakia, I gained valuable insights into different educational approaches, particularly in mathematics and early childhood education.

The Hejny method, which focuses on conceptual understanding and discovery-based learning, closely aligns with the CPA approach that I promote among educators in Malta. Both methods prioritise engagement and accessibility in mathematics over rote memorisation. I was struck by how educators seamlessly incorporated outdoor spaces into learning, using nature to teach mathematical concepts such as measurement, patterns and spatial awareness, reinforcing the importance of hands-on, experiential learning.

Another observation was the emergent curriculum in kindergarten, where children explored concepts through play and inquiry. This child-led approach promotes curiosity and a love for learning, contrasting with more structured methods. Educators in this school focus on creating interactive and enjoyable experiences, maximising the use of outdoor space. This philosophy aligns with research on early childhood education, which suggests that play-based learning supports cognitive and social development more effectively than formal instruction at a young age.

A notable difference between the two systems is the pace of academic progression. For example, I observed that Slovak students aged 7-8 are introduced to concepts that Maltese students encounter at 5-6 years old. This earlier exposure in Malta can be challenging, as younger children may lack the cognitive maturity to grasp abstract ideas. In contrast, the Slovak approach allows students to develop a stronger foundational understanding, reducing academic pressure at an early age. Educators in Slovakia emphasise providing enriching experiences rather than categorising young learners based on potential learning difficulties, ensuring a more holistic and developmentally appropriate start to education.