At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, education goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. The schools are dedicated to raising global citizens – young people who are aware of the world around them, respect diversity, and are prepared to make meaningful contributions both locally and internationally.

In a world that is increasingly connected, students at Verbum Dei are encouraged to think broadly, act responsibly, and embrace values that transcend borders.

What Does Global Citizenship Mean?

Global citizenship is about teaching students to:

1. Recognize Diversity – Appreciating cultural, religious, and ethnic differences.
2. Think Beyond Self – Understanding that their actions impact communities near and far.
3. Promote Justice and Fairness – Standing up for what is right and fair.
4. Care for the Environment – Recognizing the responsibility to protect the planet.
5. Engage in Service – Giving back to the community through service and leadership.

Nurturing Global Citizenship at Verbum Dei Academy (Nursery & Primary)

At the early learning stage, children are guided to see the world as a shared home:

• Stories and Lessons – Pupils learn through tales that highlight kindness, respect, and care for others.
• Celebrating Diversity – Classroom activities introduce children to cultures, foods, and traditions from around the world.
• Environmental Awareness – Pupils are taught the importance of planting trees, reducing waste, and protecting nature.
• Acts of Kindness – Simple classroom routines, like sharing and helping peers, instill values of empathy and compassion.

These small but powerful lessons lay the foundation for a global mindset.

Global Citizenship at Verbum Dei International College (Secondary)

In the secondary school, the focus expands into practical engagement and awareness:

• Cultural Exchanges – Students engage in discussions and projects about global issues.
• Debates and Seminars – Topics such as climate change, poverty, and technology prepare them to think critically.
• Community Service – Students participate in outreach programs, giving them firsthand experience in service and social responsibility.
• Leadership Opportunities – Student leaders learn to make decisions that affect not just their peers but also the larger community.

These experiences empower students to see themselves as active citizens of the world.

Why Global Citizenship Matters

1. Develops Empathy – Students learn to understand and respect different perspectives.
2. Prepares for Global Careers – In the modern workplace, cross-cultural skills are essential.
3. Strengthens Social Responsibility – Students become aware of their duty to society.
4. Encourages Innovation – Exposure to global issues inspires creativity and solutions.

Conclusion

By nurturing global citizenship, Verbum Dei Schools are raising students who are not only academically sound but also socially conscious, culturally aware, and morally grounded.

These young men and women will step into the world ready to lead, to serve, and to make a difference that reaches far beyond the classroom.

A strong school community is built on values that shape not only academic success but also personal growth. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, two values stand tall at the heart of our culture: Respect and Responsibility. These virtues guide the way students learn, interact, and grow into confident and principled individuals.

Why Respect Matters

Respect is the foundation of healthy relationships and a peaceful learning environment. At Verbum Dei, students are taught to:

1. Respect Themselves – By developing confidence, discipline, and pride in their work.
2. Respect Others – Through kindness, courtesy, and understanding toward classmates, teachers, and staff.
3. Respect Authority – By listening attentively, following school rules, and recognizing the role of guidance.
4. Respect Diversity – By appreciating differences in culture, religion, and personality.
5. Respect the Environment – Keeping classrooms, playgrounds, and school facilities clean and cared for.

Why Responsibility Matters

Responsibility is the backbone of personal success and leadership. Students at Verbum Dei learn responsibility by:

• Completing Assignments on Time – Taking ownership of their studies and efforts.
• Being Accountable for Actions – Understanding that choices have consequences.
• Caring for School Property – Treating books, equipment, and facilities with care.
• Helping at Home and School – Contributing positively to their families and communities.
• Setting Personal Goals – Learning to manage time, prioritize tasks, and achieve objectives.

Respect & Responsibility at Verbum Dei Academy (Nursery & Primary)

For younger pupils, respect and responsibility are instilled through simple but powerful practices:

• Greetings and Politeness: Children learn to greet teachers and peers with courtesy.
• Sharing and Cooperation: Pupils are guided to take turns, share resources, and help each other.
• Small Responsibilities: Class monitors or helpers take pride in simple duties like arranging books or keeping classrooms tidy.

These early lessons shape their character and prepare them for bigger challenges ahead.

Respect & Responsibility at Verbum Dei International College (Secondary)

At the secondary school level, these values are deepened and practiced with greater maturity:

• Student Leadership Roles: Prefects, club leaders, and team captains model respect and responsibility.
• Academic Integrity: Honesty in assignments and exams is strictly upheld.
• Peer Mentorship: Older students guide younger ones in studies and personal conduct.
• Community Service: Students engage in outreach activities that teach respect for others and responsibility toward society.

The Long-Term Benefits

1. Strong Character Formation – Students grow into principled individuals with solid moral foundations.
2. Positive School Climate – Respectful and responsible behavior creates a safe, supportive, and productive learning environment.
3. Lifelong Skills – These values prepare students for university, careers, and future leadership roles.

Conclusion

At Verbum Dei Schools, Respect and Responsibility are more than just words – they are daily habits and guiding principles. From the youngest pupil in nursery to the graduating student in college, these values are nurtured, practiced, and celebrated.

By cultivating respect and responsibility, Verbum Dei is not only shaping excellent learners but also preparing responsible, compassionate, and respectful citizens of tomorrow.

Introduction

Confidence and self-esteem are two of the most important qualities a child can develop. They shape how children see themselves, how they interact with others, and how they face challenges in school and life. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, we believe education goes beyond academics—it’s also about building character and self-belief.

While schools play a vital role, parents are the first and most consistent influence in shaping their children’s confidence. This article explores practical ways parents can nurture self-esteem at home while working hand-in-hand with Verbum Dei teachers.

Why Confidence and Self-Esteem Matter in Children

A confident child is more likely to:

• Take risks in learning without fear of failure
• Build healthy friendships
• Speak up in class and express ideas
• Show resilience in the face of challenges
• Develop leadership qualities

On the other hand, low self-esteem can lead to shyness, self-doubt, reluctance to participate, or even behavioral issues. That’s why Verbum Dei schools prioritize affirmation, encouragement, and opportunities for growth in every stage of learning.

How Parents Can Build Confidence at Home

1. Show Unconditional Love and Acceptance

Children thrive when they feel valued for who they are, not just for their achievements. Regular words of encouragement and affection reassure children that they are loved, even when they make mistakes.

2. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Instead of focusing only on grades, acknowledge the hard work your child puts into assignments. At Verbum Dei, teachers often reward effort as much as achievement, reinforcing the idea that growth comes through persistence.

3. Encourage Independence

Allow children to make age-appropriate choices—what clothes to wear, how to arrange their study desk, or how to approach homework. Independence builds decision-making skills and self-trust.

4. Teach Problem-Solving Skills

When challenges arise, resist the urge to immediately solve them for your child. Guide them through possible solutions. For instance, if a homework question is tough, ask: “What do you think is the first step?” This boosts confidence in their own thinking.

5. Be a Role Model

Children mirror their parents. Displaying confidence, resilience, and positive self-talk in your own life sets a powerful example.

6. Provide Opportunities for Success

Encourage activities where your child can excel, whether in sports, arts, or academics. Small wins build momentum toward greater confidence.

How Verbum Dei Schools Foster Confidence in Students

Both Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College integrate confidence-building into their daily practices:

• Public Speaking & Presentations – Students are given opportunities to present ideas in class.
• Clubs and Extracurriculars – From sports to debate, children showcase talents outside academics.
• Leadership Roles – Prefects and class monitors are trained to lead peers with courage.
• Encouragement from Teachers – Teachers provide constructive feedback, highlighting strengths while guiding improvements.

This partnership between school and home ensures children see themselves as capable, valued, and empowered.

Real-Life Example

A parent of a Verbum Dei International College student shared how her son used to be shy and hesitant to participate in group work. With encouragement from teachers and consistent support at home—celebrating small achievements like answering one question in class—his confidence grew. Today, he takes part in debates and even volunteers to lead group projects.

Long-Term Benefits of Building Confidence Early

Children raised with strong confidence and self-esteem are more likely to become:

• Independent thinkers
• Resilient in handling challenges
• Effective communicators
• Compassionate leaders
• Adults who believe in their potential

These are exactly the kind of future-ready individuals Verbum Dei aims to nurture.

Conclusion

Confidence and self-esteem are gifts parents can give their children that last a lifetime. By working together with Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, parents can ensure their children grow into resilient, capable, and self-assured individuals ready to face the world.

When children believe in themselves, there is no limit to what they can achieve.