Mind, Body, Spirit . . . and Light

Aiglon’s Assistant Head - Discovery, Jack George, celebrates Aiglon’s ongoing collaboration with Svitlo School, Ukraine in a journey that is as beneficial to our students as it was to those whom they mentor.

The balanced development of mind, body and spirit by definition encourages a holistic journey on the part of each Aiglonian to discover how to become a truly valued member of global society. Upon this journey all students learn about the intricacies and more significant differences between collaboration, service and philanthropy through structured opportunities to practise skills associated with these values. One such opportunity has taught our students a huge amount about themselves whilst sharing knowledge with those who have lost valuable learning opportunities due to the conflict in Ukraine.

“Thank you for giving us a chance for education that goes beyond language learning, connecting us in a way that is both enriching and unique…the connection between Svitlo and Aiglon knows no boundaries.”

Ksenia Svitlo student

Svitlo, meaning light in Ukrainian, is an online school and charity founded by Yulia Kosko, who believes that, despite the current conflict, democratic values, transparency in governing Ukraine and collaboration with the world can be fully developed in the country's next generation. The school aims to educate future political, social and business leaders through providing additional lessons alongside regular schooling in collaboration with international teachers, mentors and other volunteers. It is through this opportunity that a number of our current Year 12 and 13 have provided weekly mentoring and academic support sessions to younger Ukrainian students in English, Maths, Science and even guitar.

"During my Svitlo experience, it has been truly rewarding to see my students engage in the lessons and encourage each other's learning. Teaching really challenges you to constantly adapt to the needs and experiences of any student you encounter."

Melaniya Year 13

Research in the education industry is increasingly moving towards the appreciation of metacognition, awareness of how to obtain, retain and disseminate knowledge in an effort to improve its application in real world situations. This, many believe, will be more and more important in the workplace of tomorrow as character becomes key. In order to achieve mastery of this our Aiglonians must learn what it is to teach and therefore break down knowledge in a way that is accessible to those who may have more difficulty in grasping concepts that they themselves understand. Therefore, in supporting their younger counterparts in Ukraine, our Year 12 and 13s have further developed lifelong soft skills that will be essential when they leave the mountain and embody our values in diverse international industries going forward. At Aiglon we are proud that students have the opportunity to practise kindness through service and engagement as regularly as they practise tennis and it is this regularity that allows them to truly refine their skillset.

“Through this collaboration Svitlo students have been inspired to think big, have shared life stories with their mentors and have learned about Aiglon’s intercultural values, with which our organisation is very much aligned. Most importantly, our students have been reassured that they have not been forgotten”

Yuliya Kosko Svitlo’s founder

Yuliya, Svitlo’s founder, has plans to grow the school to benefit as many children as possible until her country is back on its feet and even when stability returns. That being said, as the world learned from lockdowns just a few short years ago, online school can present both opportunities and challenges for all involved. As such, Svitlo’s offering and provision will continue to evolve so as to best serve its students in an ever-changing world where meaningful international friendships can improve societies infinitely. No matter what lies ahead, both Aiglon and Svitlo hope to reinforce the bonds in the months and years to come through continued collaboration and opportunities to share common values both in person and online.

Our students have learned so much from their Svitlo mentees and hope to impart useful knowledge and values in return. Long may it continue.

If you would like to know more about Svitlo School, please visit svitloschool.com