Community Schools Group: Six Bricks Ignites Creativity and Play-Based Learning

Over 200 Foundation phase teachers from the Community Schools Group (CSG) recently participated in a dynamic and hands-on training session focused on Six Bricks, a powerful tool for developing foundational skills through play. Two events were held: at Pinnacle College Founders Hill and Pinnacle College Kyalami. Campuses were transformed into a hub of creativity, collaboration, and professional development.

The training marked a significant step in CSG’s commitment to innovative teaching methods. Six Bricks, a program that uses sets of six LEGO® bricks in a variety of activities, helps enhance cognitive, physical, and emotional skills in students. The workshop provided teachers with practical strategies to integrate these playful, yet purposeful, activities into their daily lessons.

During the session, educators engaged in a "brickstorm" of activities, tackling creative challenges and sharing ideas. The atmosphere was filled with "aha!" moments and laughter as teachers discovered how a small, colorful brick can be a catalyst for meaningful learning. They explored new ways to use the bricks for storytelling, problem-solving, and developing critical thinking skills across different subjects.

"The energy from the teachers was incredible," said Altie van Schalkwyk, Academic Head of Brand for CSG. "They didn't just passively learn; they actively collaborated, sharing adaptations and new ideas for their students. This initiative is about more than just a set of bricks—it's about reminding us all of the importance of a playful mindset in education."

By the end of the day, teachers were equipped with both the materials and the confidence to implement the Six Bricks program immediately in their classrooms. The training underscored the powerful impact that play-based learning can have on student engagement and academic outcomes.

CSG plans to continue this professional development initiative with additional training sessions for more staff in the coming months, further expanding the reach and impact of the Six Bricks program.

About Six Bricks Six Bricks is an international program that uses six LEGO® Duplo® bricks in a wide range of activities to foster cognitive, emotional, and physical development in children. The methodology is designed to be accessible, engaging, and effective, making it a valuable tool for educators worldwide.