At the heart of the STEAM learning approach at Canadian International School (CIS) is Kent Jamieson; a passionate educator dedicated to sparking curiosity and innovation in young learners. We had the chance to chat with him about why a STEAM education is so important and what makes it so special at CIS.

Hello Kent, thanks for chatting with us! STEAM is a buzzword we hear in education, but can you share with us what it really means in the classroom?

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, but at CIS, it’s so much more than just a set of subjects. It’s an interdisciplinary approach that connects scientific inquiry with technological applications, engineering problem-solving, artistic creativity, and mathematical modeling.

At CIS, students solve real-world problems, get creative, and learn by doing. Whether they’re designing a bridge, coding an app, or exploring how art connects to science, they’re developing skills that help them think critically, work together, and innovate.

STEAM sounds like an exciting approach to learning! What makes STEAM at CIS so special?

STEAM at CIS is woven into everything we do and seamlessly integrated into daily learning, where students get to apply their learning in real, meaningful ways. CIS also integrates STEAM lessons into the IB curriculum across all grade levels, providing state-of-the-art tools and learning environments that encourage authentic, collaborative projects.

Our students learn concepts and apply them in inquiry-based projects connected to their Units of Inquiry (UOI). For example, recently in our Grade 4 UOI, How We Organise Ourselves, students explored how the natural environment influences design solutions. They built and tested rain infrastructure models, applying their maker skills to construct buildings and covered walkways that accounted for rain, lightning, and heat. These hands-on experiences empower students to see the connections between science, engineering, and the world around them.

Beyond academics, what skills do students gain from a STEAM learning approach?

Students develop essential skills such as collaboration, resilience, and analytical thinking, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges. Through hands-on projects, they gain confidence in designing, building, and making, turning their imaginative ideas into tangible realities.

A STEAM learning approach is so important for our students as it genuinely sparks excitement and curiosity, enables authentic learning to take place, and fosters problem-solving and innovation—skills which are essential for thriving in today's ever-changing world.

How does STEAM help students keep up with future careers and challenges?

The world is changing fast, and many future jobs don’t even exist yet. Our STEAM lessons focus on real-world problem-solving, equipping students with adaptability and critical thinking skills. STEAM education helps students build these skills so they can confidently step into any career—whether it’s in science, tech, the arts, or something completely new. These attributes are fundamental for success in a future where technology and innovation will drive many industries.

What is your favourite part of being a Primary STEAM teacher?

My favourite part of the job is witnessing moments of discovery and reflection in my students. I love seeing them collaborate, refine their ideas, and experience the excitement of bringing their creations to life. Inspiring young learners to be curious about the world around them and equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex and technological world is what drives me everyday.

Thank you Kent for taking the time to share more about the unique STEAM learning approach at CIS with us.