The core idea behind holistic education is the belief that education should nurture every aspect of a person’s being. This approach sees students as whole individuals with unique potentials, rather than merely focusing on academic achievement. At Global Achievers Academy, we embody the principles of holistic education in our curriculum. In this article we will discuss the key components of holistic education and how we integrate them into our offerings.
The history of holistic education can be traced back to ancient Greece, with Socrates being one of its earliest proponents. Socrates encouraged individuals to “know thyself,” a principle that aligns with the holistic approach of understanding and developing the whole person. The concept of holism comes from the Greek word “Holon,” which signifies the universe as interconnected wholes rather than separate parts.
The term “Holistic Education” was later popularised by South African Field Marshal General Jan Christian Smuts. Smuts, who is often credited with founding the philosophy of holism, was inspired by the Greek concept of Holon. He emphasised that learning should reflect the interconnected nature of life, encompassing intellectual, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual development. This approach aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of navigating and contributing to the complexities of the modern world.
Intellectual development in holistic education involves fostering critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity. The idea is to engage students in a way that stimulates their minds and encourages a love of learning. At Global Achievers Academy, this is achieved through a robust curriculum that includes a wide range of academic subjects.
Emotional and social learning focuses on developing emotional intelligence, empathy, and strong interpersonal skills. The goal is to help students understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and navigate social complexities. Global Achievers Academy nurtures emotional intelligence through sessions with guest speakers like Christine Miles, group projects, and collaborative activities that further enhance these skills, helping students build strong interpersonal relationships.
Physical development is essential for overall well-being and involves promoting physical fitness, coordination, and a healthy lifestyle. Holistic education recognises the importance of a healthy body in supporting a healthy mind. At Global Achievers Academy, physical education is a key part of our programme and students have the opportunity to experience firsthand how physical activities positively impact their mental well-being.
At Global Achievers Academy, we are committed to providing a holistic education that equips our students with the tools they need to succeed in all aspects of life. View our sample programme here.
