PRINCIPAL of Shortwood Teachers’ College Nadine Molloy says the institution will focus on three important frontiers as it celebrates its 140th anniversary and beyond.

Speaking in the Marjorie Myers Hall on the campus for the media launch of the college’s 140th anniversary, Molloy said Shortwood Teachers’ College intends to strengthen its place as a bastion of teacher training.

“In this strategic tripod, we have early childhood education, special needs education, and mathematics education. These three pillars, we believe, will ultimately determine the quality and equity of education for generations to come,” Molloy said.

Molloy’s address outlined the three pillars as critical for equity and excellence in national education.

“Shortwood’s strategic response is that we are growing our college to meet the needs of all worlds…advancing the important frontiers of early childhood education, special needs education, and mathematics education.

“Our strategic aim is to reset the standard for education professionals to the highest. We will be known for educators who embody both the mastery of their craft and a gentle, compassionate approach to the children entrusted in their care,” she explained.

In her address, Education Minister Dr Dana Morris Dixon renewed the Government’s commitment to educator training, which was also in line with Shortwood’s vision.

“The Government has committed to providing full scholarships for special educators, recognising the urgent need to build capacity in special education and inclusion. Every teacher is on track to become a teacher of a special needs child,” Dr Morris Dixon said. “Every child, no matter their abilities or disabilities, deserves a teacher who is trained and ready to help them thrive.”

Shortwood Teachers’ College was founded on September 28, 1885 by the Right Reverend Enos Nutall. The college was originally a female training institution known as Jamaica Women’s College; however, it became co-educational in 2001.

The launch honoured its patron Audrey Sewell, a graduate of the college who served as a home economics teacher across various levels of the system including being instrumental in the launch of the HEART Trust/NTA in 1982.