At Maple Bear we prepare citizens of the world

As educators, we have a responsibility to nurture the next generation of leaders. At Maple Bear, we teach personal responsibility inside the classroom as part of your daily routine and global awareness outside of it. Soft skills and character building are just as important components of the curriculum as are academic subjects. We believe that to face the challenges of the future, we need young people who can think critically and solve problems creatively beyond having good academic performance.

The Maple Bear program teaches tolerance and mutual respect from the earliest years, integrates leadership explicitly in the later years, and consistently encourages students to participate in community service and social responsibility initiatives.

Canada is a pioneer among the countries that adapted their education system to the concept of 21st-century skills. Since 1994 the state has applied a methodology fully focusing on learning the key skills for future success. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) identifies 12 Skills (Skills of the 21st Century) divided into three groups.

The objective is to give children the capability of effectively adapting to a fast-changing environment. It focuses on several competencies such as critical thinking , creativity, problem-solving and innovation. Life skills (Flexibility, Leadership, Productivity, Risk Taking, Social skills) Learning skills (Critical thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication) Literacy (Information, Media, Technology).

The rapid pace of technological advancements and shifts in the job market require individuals to be adaptable. Future-ready skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, enable people to navigate and thrive amidst these changes. As technology continues to advance, proficiency in digital tools and platforms is crucial. Skills in areas like data analysis, coding, and digital communication are increasingly demanded by employers. However the ability to learn continuously and independently is a cornerstone of future-ready skills. This mindset ensures that individuals can keep up with new developments and remain competitive in their careers.

Future-ready skills foster innovation and creativity, which are essential for solving complex problems and driving progress in any industry. (Newsletter on the Creativity report from PISA coming soon).