Stepping into the role of a student at The Dewey Schools, a day for Grade 8 and 9 students from Genesis School begins with a basketball game. From shy smiles at first, after just a few dribbles and cheers, all barriers gradually fade away. With the warm welcome from Dewey teachers and students, the newcomers quickly find their rhythm and naturally blend in.
After some physical activity, students move into “experiential classrooms” such as Science, MDE Innovation, and Visual Arts. These are 3 of the 7 subjects transferred from partner school Mount Vernon School (USA), featuring a fresh, experience-based approach to learning. Starting from real-life questions, students are given tasks that recreate “the journey of a scientist or an artist,” such as generating electricity, 3D-printing keychains, or creating artwork from leaves. Knowledge comes to them in a natural and relatable way—yet deeply understood and easily applied.
Between classes are moments of organic connection: chatting in the schoolyard, touring the theater, interacting with clubs, or simply observing how Dewey students communicate. It’s an open environment where every student is encouraged to speak up and express their individuality.
The day gently concludes with a small, thoughtful surprise gift from Dewey, along with handwritten notes from teachers—making students feel appreciated and cared for in a truly personal and delicate way.
“I find the students here very friendly and easy to connect with.”
“Studying here isn’t stressful, yet I still learn many new things.”
“I love experiential learning—it’s fun and easy to understand.”
These brief reflections capture the joy and enthusiasm for learning after a meaningful day of experience.
More importantly, students take initiative to explore, communicate confidently, embrace experimentation, and express their own perspectives—core qualities that define the Dewey student DNA.
At The Dewey Schools, learning doesn’t follow a fixed mold; instead, it opens up space for each student to discover their own way of learning. When given opportunities to experience, to be heard, and to make mistakes, students gradually develop their thinking, confidence, and self-directed learning abilities. And perhaps for many Genesis students, just one day of experience is enough to realize that learning is a meaningful journey—full of joy and rooted in the simple things of everyday life.
