“Building Personhood in Children” : 6-7 July 2007, Methodist College Kuala Lumpur

With an interval of four years from the last Head Teachers’ Conference (in 2003), the Council of Education (Peninsular) organized this colloquium for Head Teachers of our Methodist schools to discuss issues related to their roles and responsibilities. It was also an effort to give a sense of being part of the Methodist Schools system and heritage.

Before the more serious discussions of the colloquium, the event began with an evening of dinner and light entertainment. Emcee for the night, Mr. A.R. Peter interspersed the flow of items with his anecdotes and jokes. A slide presentation, entitled Proud Moments, about the Methodist Mission Schools was shown. This was followed by a speech from Dr. Lee Bee Teik, the wife of Bishop Hwa Yung who was unable to attend.

The highlight of the evening was the acknowledgement and appreciation to the Heads of schools who had retired during the period 2003 to 2007. A total of 29 Heads from primary and secondary Methodist schools had retired although not everyone were able to be there.
 
The next day was given to the theme of the colloquium, “Building Personhood in Children”. Earlier in the morning Rev. Ong Hwai Teik, President of TRAC, gave the morning devotion. He reminded Christian teachers that every child made in the image of God has the value and the potential for greatness. He spoke of the four Qs that we seek to build in the child. The Intelligence and Emotional Quotient we are familiar with. But he also highlighted the Spiritual Quotient that is essential to a full life, and the Adversity Quotient that enables the person to face the realities of life.

The plenary forum and small group discussions covered many issues. Building the person is to reach the heart as well as the mind. And this can only be achieved when love and care is shown. Head Teachers can show this and encourage teachers to care. A culture of positive work ethics can provide the environment for learning and development in personal growth. New and inexperienced teachers can be nurtured and mentored to become better.

There was much to ponder and take home out of these discussions. The gathering also provided an opportunity to share notes on important issues that confront Head Teachers today. It was the aim of the Council of Education to provide such an avenue so that Methodist schools can provide the education that builds the whole person.