The Fun and Study Time (FAST) programme is an ideal period for the little ones to complete their obligations before and after lessons and have unique experiences.

So, during this spring-awakening period, many of them discovered they had a knack for music or martial arts.

In the previous weeks, teacher Danica Nikolić held several comprehensive workshops in classrooms where after-class activities are performed, i.e. the popular FAST programme. The activities included interaction between older and younger students, with an emphasis on peer education.

So, the role of the teacher was taken over by senior primary students, who helped their younger friends with their homework. The workshops were very efficient, and the junior students pointed out that they were very pleased to receive the full attention of the older ones, while the little mentors commented that it also meant a lot to them that they could help.

The kids enjoyed other fun activities as well. FAST is always dynamic, and the work is conceived in a way that allows students to work in small groups and learn through interesting activities, play sports or enjoy arts and crafts.

GUITARISTS AND JUDOISTS WITH PROMISING TALENT

Some students have been long attending the guitar club at Primary School Savremena, and their music ability is worthy of praise.

Vanja Pavlović, a student of VI-1, held a mini-concert for his friends who eagerly listened to him and later on played a few notes themselves. Also, thanks to the peer education method, they absorbed every word and movement suggested by their older friend.

It has been proven that children who play a musical instrument have better motor skills, memory, attention, organisation and planning skills, and they also process emotions better. At Savremena, the children learn how to play on the classical guitar, as this is the fastest way to master the basics and the modern playing techniques. These lessons are planned so as not to interfere with the school schedule or other extracurricular activities.

Then came the ancient Japanese martial art of judo, with a mini-training held by Ira Tuba, a judo champion and teacher at Primary School Savremena. She taught the kids the basics of this martial art, and some of them showed real talent when it comes to technique. During this entertaining activity, the children gained an excellent basis upon which they can build should they decide to pursue this sport. And the martial arts club has certainly become one of the favourites at school.

Due to its characteristics, among other things, judo is practiced all over the world. In Japan and several other countries, it is included in the school system instead of physical education. In addition to developing physical abilities (endurance, strength, dexterity, elasticity, speed), judo teaches children respect, and they also gain self-confidence and forge new friendships in training.

FAST TRULY ENRICHES SCHOOL DAYS

In addition to the mandatory lessons that students attend, it is very important how they spend their free time. This is why the Fun and Study Time programme is tailored to the students’ age group and follows the activity plan for each day. During their extracurricular activities, students can use the running track, gym, five-a-side football pitch, basketball, volleyball and handball courts. After lessons, they relax by playing various board games, drawing, watching films and much more.

In these time slots, children often organise events, competitions, quizzes, make art panels or play various board games. Many are inclined to take some of the “creations” home and surprise their parents.

Savremena wants its students to come to school happy and to grow into introspective, enterprising and conscientious people full of self-confidence, dynamic and able to adapt to changes in the modern world. By encouraging the children’s creativity, we prepare them for the future!