At Nagoya International School, learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. This year’s 'Fire the Neurons' event brought students from grades 6 to 10 together for an hour of creativity, teamwork, and exploration beyond the usual curriculum. Organized by the Well-being team and homeroom teachers, the event challenged students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences that expand their thinking and deepen their connections with one another.
Now in its second year, 'Fire the Neurons' is one way the school’s commitment to whole-student development is put into practice and framed by the throughline of Inquire, Inspire, Impact, and Include. The concept is simple yet powerful: encourage students to "fire" their neurons by trying something new. Whether it’s an art workshop, a science experiment, or a physical challenge, each activity emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and the joy of discovery.
Beyond Four Walls
The event’s purpose is clear: to push learning outside of the classroom’s traditional boundaries. Students had the chance to sign up for activities ranging from fitness to mindfulness, and everything in between. Here’s a glimpse at what was offered:
- Fitness to Music: A cardio, strength, and stretch workout set to upbeat music.
- Friendship Bracelets: Learning the art of crafting simple, colorful bracelets.
- Quiet Reading: A peaceful moment of mindfulness with a favorite book.
- Nature Walk: Exploring and integrating nature into mindful walking.
- Plant Identification: Learning about local flora by identifying plants around the school.
- Football/Soccer: Fun drills, skills, and gameplay on the field.
- Artists’ Connections: Creating and connecting through art, inspired by the Noto Peninsula Initiative.
- Dance Spectacular: Dancing for fun and self-expression.
- Jigsaw Puzzles and Model Building: Collaborating to create moving mechanisms (Strandbeests) or complete challenging puzzles.
- Badminton Games: Friendly matches on two courts in the gym.
- Origami: Exploring traditional and modern paper-folding techniques.
- Table-top Escape Room (Grades 9 or 10): A competitive escape challenge with a 75% success rate!
- Library Board Games: Strategic and cooperative fun in the library.
The Power of Choice and Connection
Students were asked to provide first and second activity choices or embrace the adventure of being placed randomly. These activities offered opportunities for cross-grade interaction, encouraging students to make new connections and learn from one another.
The event also highlights NIS’s focus on student voice. As 'Fire the Neurons' continues to evolve, future events will include opportunities for students to take the lead by organizing and running activities to develop leadership and organizational skills.
A Growing Tradition
Held several times a year, 'Fire the Neurons' reflects the school’s commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and well-being. Whether crafting, moving, solving puzzles, or connecting through games, students engage their minds and bodies in ways that go beyond the traditional curriculum.
With another successful event behind us, it’s clear that 'Fire the Neurons' is sparking more than just neurons—it’s igniting a passion for exploration, community, and lifelong learning.
