Dear Editor,

Education in Jamaica is often viewed through the lens of formality and routines that must be followed to meet the teacher’s objectives or complete a particular portion of the curriculum. However, more and more educators are finding that following the curriculum rigidly simply stifles the growth and development of our children.

When learning becomes only about ticking boxes and meeting deadlines, students can lose their natural curiosity. Children are not robots, and learning is not a factory line. Creativity allows them to ask questions, make mistakes, and truly understand what they are being taught rather than just memorising it for exams.

It is important that children are given room to be creative in their pursuit of academic success, and teachers are expected to be the guides they desire. Therefore, creating a caring and nurturing environment in which children can express themselves and grow organically is important. In such environments students feel safe enough to share ideas, explore their talents, and develop confidence. A creative classroom helps learners discover who they are, how they think, and how they can contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Creativity also helps students develop important life skills, such as communication, collaboration, and resilience. When learners are encouraged to think creatively, they learn how to approach challenges from different angles and find solutions that work for them. This change in mindset is not limited to or grounded in policy reform. All educators are expected to facilitate learning through creativity and are not necessarily limited to sitting in a classroom and teaching or simply using a smart room and a projector.

Educators are encouraged to think outside the box and be creative in their approach.

Creativity in education does not require expensive tools or complex systems. Sometimes it is as simple as storytelling, discussion, art, movement, or allowing students to learn through real-life experiences. When creativity is embraced, learning becomes more engaging, joyful, and lasting.

It is also important to remember that creativity looks different in every child. Not all students express creativity through art or writing; some do so through problem solving, leadership, curiosity, or hands-on exploration. Recognising this allows every child to feel seen and valued in the learning process.

Ultimately, education should prepare children not only to pass exams but also to think critically, adapt, and problem solve in a constantly changing world. Creativity is not an extra; it is essential.

Ricardo Smith and Melissa Patton

Educators

ricardo.professional.edu@gmail.com