The Tribune

By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Education Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

HELPING children build confidence, develop good character and prepare for success in the classroom and beyond was the focus of a back-to-school workshop that brought students and their families together at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

Hosted by LevelUp Leaders 360 on September 5, the free event welcomed students in Grades 4–6, along with parents, guardians, educators and community leaders, for a morning of learning, encouragement and activities aimed at supporting children's academic and personal development.

The workshop also created an opportunity for parents and guardians to explore how they can help their children grow in confidence and navigate the challenges of school and everyday life.

The programme opened with a keynote presentation, “Connecting Families to Build Confident Students”, delivered by Dr Alexandria Roberts-Bowe, director of Catholic Education. A panel discussion featuring Sandena Neely, Ricardo P. Deveaux, Dr Candice Richardson and Olivia Daxon followed, with participants sharing advice on supporting children's academic, social and personal growth.

Students took part in interactive sessions covering identity and confidence, leadership and character, goal setting and school success, kindness, and making positive choices.

Junell Johnson, a former head girl of Moss Town Primary School and the inaugural recipient of the Charles “Chuck” Mackey Legacy Scholarship, also addressed the students, offering an opportunity for them to hear from someone whose own educational journey could serve as encouragement.

Another highlight was an intergenerational roundtable discussion that brought students, parents, educators, youth advocates and community leaders together to share experiences and consider ways to help young people overcome challenges, make positive decisions and succeed in school and beyond.

The event also saw the launch of two books authored by Koschina L Marshall: The Primary School Planner for Grades 4–6 and The Ultimate Primary School Planner for Grades 4–6.

The planners are designed to help students strengthen their organisation, goal-setting and time-management skills, prepare for their studies and develop personal responsibility. Each student who attended the workshop will receive a complimentary copy of one of the planners.

LevelUp Leaders 360 also launched the 2027 Charles “Chuck” Mackey Legacy Scholarship Competition, which will offer participating students and their parents or guardians continued support throughout the school year. Planned activities include academic coaching, character development, deportment training, parent coaching and other enrichment opportunities. The competition winner will receive a monetary award.

Parents and guardians interested in the organisation's programmes can visit www.levelupleaders360.com or follow LevelUp Leaders 360 on Facebook for further information.