Supporting Every Learner: Rethinking Education in Trinidad and Tobago
As an educator with close to 25 years of experience, I’ve witnessed the evolution of the education system in Trinidad and Tobago. From the classroom to the staff room, one thing remains constant, that is every child learns differently, and yet our system often expects them to fit into one mold.
In this blog, I want to explore the pros and cons of our current system, and share my hopes for an approach that supports comprehension skills, neurodivergent learners, and SEA exam preparation in meaningful ways.
What’s Working: The Strengths of the System
‘Free’ and accessible (for the most part), education for primary and secondary students.
Structured pathways through SEA and CSEC exams.
Helpful support programmess like the School Feeding Programme and Textbook Rental initiatives.
These are foundations, and we should continue to build and improve.
What Needs Improvement
Exam-centric pressure: Our focus on high-stakes testing, particularly SEA preparation, often creates stress for both children and parents. (We do not teach the life skills that can assist children to cope.) There’s little room for creativity or reflection.
Limited support for neurodivergent students: Many children with ADHD, Autism, and other learning differences need differentiated strategies, yet classrooms often lack the resources to provide them. (Read more about Neurodivergent Learners here - Neurodiversity in Education: How to Create Supportive and Inclusive Classrooms — The Desha Academy).
Weak Comprehension foundations: Too many students can “call words” but do not read and understand. Improving Comprehension Skills must be a national priority. (Explore our tips for boosting Reading Comprehension - 5 Clear Signs Your Child Has Comprehension Problems - How Trinidadian Parents can use get Help — The Desha Academy).
A Vision for a Better System
1. Holistic Learning Approaches
Let’s make the shift from cramming. Our children should be encouraged to ask questions, make connections, and apply knowledge. These are the skills that last beyond exams.
2. Support for Struggling Learners
We need systems in place for early identification and intervention. This includes classroom strategies, specialist support, and parental guidance. Learn more about how to help your child through SEA exam preparation.
3. Inclusive Education for all
Inclusive doesn’t just mean physical access but emotional, academic, and cultural inclusion. Every child should be seen and supported.
4. Parent-teacher collaboration
The home and school must work hand-in-hand. Regular, honest communication is essential for academic success in schools in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Education System in Trinidad and Tobago has made strides, but there’s more to be done. With the right mindset, policies, and partnerships, we can ensure no child is left behind: whether they’re mastering Comprehension Skills, preparing for the SEA exam, or navigating life as a neurodivergent learner.
We can transform education; one child, one classroom, one conversation at a time.
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to read our other blogs on: