Reading through these reflections has been both inspiring and affirming. Throughout DP Core Week, learning extended far beyond the classroom as students immersed themselves in hands-on workshops, challenged personal limits, and discovered new strengths. Their reflections clearly demonstrate the power of experiential learning, where growth happens through action, collaboration, creativity, and service.
CAS remains a vital pillar of the IB Diploma Programme because it nurtures balanced, reflective, and compassionate young people who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world. These reflections show students developing confidence, resilience, communication skills, and self-awareness, all essential qualities of lifelong learners and global citizens.
I commend our students for their honesty, courage, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones. I encourage them to continue taking initiative, applying their learning in school and beyond, and embracing every opportunity to grow, lead, and serve with purpose.
Mrs King
CAS Coordinator
#Students Reflection
When I first heard about the public speaking workshop, I was very reluctant to join because I had already told myself that public speaking was not for me. I believed I was not the right fit for public speaking because I have a lisp and I am dyslexic, so I tended to avoid public speaking out of fear of ridicule. Even though I wanted to do things that involved public speaking, I turned myself away and sheltered myself in fear of embarrassment.
When the workshop began, I felt more compelled to talk and share my ideas and opinions, which gave me a sense of fulfilment I had never felt before. Though I was happy with my newfound passion, I still felt discomfort putting myself in front of my peers to talk about my experiences and fears. During those moments, I remembered something said during the workshop that stayed with me: being anxious does not mean you are not confident. Remembering this made it easier for me to share my ideas and thoughts.
During this experience, I saw a lot of personal growth because I was able to identify my challenges with public speaking and begin working through them. One key lesson I will carry forward is that when you step on stage, you should embody a character and let go of your previous fears and tendencies. I believe this will help me feel less anxious when speaking publicly. Mawuena Apreku, Grade 11
The workshop I took part in was the STEAM Creative Workshop: Pendant Light Craft, guided by Ms Amy and Ms Ruth. The workshop was a very fascinating experience because it was my first time creating something as beautiful as pendant lights. By wrapping threads around metal framing, I could create patterns using different coloured threads. My first piece turned out really pretty for a first attempt. Taking risks and exploring new ideas broadened my imagination about what I could create.
One challenge I faced was looping the thread between frames to create patterns. I tried wrapping the thread around a pencil to prevent tangling, but it created more issues. Eventually, I allowed the thread to hang freely. Although it took longer, it produced better results and taught me that the easiest method does not always give the best outcome. I also found it difficult balancing the workshop with my schedule, but I managed to complete the first and longest stage successfully.
Through this experience, I discovered how much I enjoy creating new things and how these skills can be applied to other areas of my life, including Visual Arts and problem-solving. Ms Amy and Ms Ruth were extremely supportive, helping me join threads, untangle knots, and encouraging me when I felt demotivated. Overall, the workshop was inspiring and enjoyable, and I would love to participate in something similar again. Ashley Adjei, Grade 11
DP Core Week was an extremely insightful and engaging experience. One workshop I participated in was the Public Speaking Workshop, which helped me grow and develop my communication skills. The workshop was led by Madame Apiorkor and her team at Breathing Art Studios, who guided us in understanding public speaking and in becoming confident communicators.
One of the highlights for me was the mirror exercise. It helped me feel more comfortable in my own skin and allowed my confidence to grow. I also learned that it is okay to feel nervous, but confidence shows in how you respond to those nerves. This encouraged me to take on more public speaking opportunities and feel more prepared to face challenges.
This workshop was extremely valuable to my CAS journey. It strengthened my creativity by helping me learn how to articulate my ideas clearly and showed me how public speaking can be used to advocate for causes. Although it challenged me, it helped me recognise my strengths and develop a skill that will benefit me in many areas of life. Bruhan-Deen Hussein, Grade 11
My participation in the Public Speaking workshop during DP Core Week was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of public speaking as both an art and a discipline. One important realisation I had was that confidence is like a muscle, something I already have but must actively develop. Initially, I hesitated to volunteer in front of my classmates, but when I was eventually called forward, speaking boosted my confidence and motivated me to continue challenging myself.
Our facilitators, Mrs Apiorkor, Mrs Gennifer, and Mr Adjatey, provided excellent guidance that went beyond speaking techniques. They taught us that public speaking is also about listening and body language. Simple techniques, such as positioning your hands to reduce fidgeting, helped me project confidence.
The workshop helped me develop self-awareness, perseverance, ethical communication, and new skills. I am committed to applying these lessons by participating in assemblies and actively seeking opportunities to practise and refine my speaking skills. Joel Ahiakpor, Grade 11
I learned that confidence is like a muscle that must be exercised daily. One challenge I faced was managing my excitement and impatience when I wanted to speak. I learned to be patient and allow others to have their moment.
The workshop also strengthened my creative writing skills through speech-writing exercises. One speech I am particularly proud of explored how I see myself as constantly evolving. I plan to apply these skills by gaining confidence to MC school events, including the STEAM Fair. Baracka Eno Nsenkyire Mark-Hansen, Grade 11
The Public Speaking workshop I participated in was an insightful and helpful experience for my growth as an international citizen and IB student. The workshop taught me confidence in a way I had never understood before and helped improve my communication skills. It also helped me discover that I am an ambivert.
The workshop challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and speak publicly about something personal, which changed my perspective on myself. One important lesson I learned was to speak as if I own the stage, as this helps project confidence, while also recognising the importance of staying humble.
I plan to apply these skills by contributing to the Assembly Team and expressing my ideas more confidently. I also learned that public speaking is not only about speaking in front of large audiences but about communicating effectively in everyday situations. Iain Lartey, Grade 11
During the Red Cross workshop, I developed my ability to collaborate with others while learning new information about first aid and medicine. The experience changed my perspective on emergency response and life-saving skills. I learned how to cooperate effectively in high-pressure situations and how to think critically when solving problems.
In the Public Speaking workshop, I was challenged with tasks that required creativity, confidence, and quick thinking. I learned how to communicate emotions and messages effectively and gained confidence in sharing my ideas.
Overall, these workshops contributed to my development in multiple areas, and I value the impact they have had on my intellectual and personal growth. Kwaku Kusi Opare, Grade 11
During DP Core Week, I participated in the Public Speaking workshop, which became one of the most meaningful public speaking experiences I have had. It allowed me to express myself freely and helped me realise that support and appreciation can come from unexpected places.
When registration opened for the workshop, I felt both excited and nervous because public speaking is outside my comfort zone. During the introductory session, I learned that confidence does not mean the absence of fear, but the ability to manage it. This reassured me because I struggle with stage fright.
The workshop helped me develop perseverance and taught me the structure of an effective speech. Practical sessions were challenging, especially when I first presented and struggled with stuttering. However, with facilitator support and guidance, I improved by the end of the workshop.
I plan to apply these skills in school, church, and possibly the Assembly Team. Hannah Vida Eunice Nikiema, Grade 11
Participating in the Public Speaking workshop led by Apiorkor Ashong-Abbey helped me better understand myself. Initially, I believed I did not need the workshop because I considered myself confident. However, I learned that public speaking involves managing anxiety, controlling body language, and presenting oneself effectively.
This experience helped me recognise my strengths and accept areas for improvement. Apiorkor’s guidance showed me how small changes in posture and delivery can significantly improve communication.
I plan to apply these skills in school presentations, leadership opportunities, and future CAS projects, as well as in social and professional settings beyond school. Aseye Torkornoo, Grade 11
The Public Speaking workshop with Ms Apiorkor and her team helped me develop confidence and communication skills. I learned that effective public speaking involves not only content but delivery, including posture, eye contact, tone, and audience engagement. Mirror exercises helped me understand the importance of self-confidence and preparation.
The workshop pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me manage nervousness through breathing techniques and preparation. It also helped me understand my classmates better by listening to their personal stories.
I plan to apply these skills by speaking more confidently in class presentations and daily interactions. Nana Adjoa Nhyira Asante, Grade 11
I participated in the Red Cross workshop, which began with an engaging introduction to Mr Daniel and the work of the Red Cross. As the sessions progressed, we explored first aid topics in greater depth. Practising CPR using training mannequins was both fun and educational.Working in teams for the final presentation strengthened my teamwork and communication skills. Overall, the workshop was engaging, enjoyable, and informative, and I would be happy to participate in similar experiences again. Sylvia Ziniel, Grade 11
