Home Based and Student Initiated Learning

Home-Based Learning and Student-Initiated Learning empower Gessians to take ownership of their learning, develop independence and pursue their interests with confidence.

Last updated 26 July 2026

Home-based Learning (HBL) in GESS

Blended Learning a key feature of the Gessian schooling experience, and an integral platform through which we develop our students to be self-directed, passionate, and life-long learners. As part of students’ Blended Learning experience, HBL Days are held once a fortnight and are incorporated into the school timetable. HBL days and learning packages are designed such that students will take the lead in directing and managing their own learning using their Personal Learning Devices (PLDs) procured at the start of Secondary 1.

Objective of HBL in GESS

The objective of HBL in GESS is to further develop Gessians to be self-directed, independent, passionate, and intrinsically motivated learners.

Four cartoon children hold colored signs reading Self-directed, Independent, Motivated, and Passionate.

GESS HBL Approach

On scheduled Home-Based Learning (HBL) Days, Gessians learn through a more flexible approach than on a typical school day. Most learning takes place asynchronously, allowing students to complete tasks at their own pace without real-time interaction with their teachers. Learning activities and resources are made available through platforms such as the Student Learning Space (SLS) and Google Classroom. The HBL schedule will be shared with all students via SLS.

On HBL days, time will also be set aside for Student-Initiated Learning (SIL) and Online Digital Literacy lessons. 30 minutes of digital literacy modules via an SLS self-paced package will be for lower secondary students only.

Table showing three learning categories: Subject Learning, Digital Literacy, and Students-Initiated Learning, with durations and monitoring details.

Four colored boxes with numbered steps for HBL Day preparation, technical help contacts, and SLS helpdesk information.

Objectives of SIL in GESS

To provide an opportunity for Gessians to learn to be an independent, passionate and be lifelong learners
To dedicate time during HBL days for Gessians to discover their interests, pursue their passions and pick up new skills within and beyond school hours.

CCE Outcomes

Four colored panels showing personal development themes: aspiring, self motivation, making a difference, and self reflection.

GESS SIL Approach

GESS SIL is incorporated into the HBL timetable. During the HBL days, student may use the time set aside (1 hour per HBL day) to pursue their own interests and learn beyond the curriculum. GESS will also provide some suggested activities and resources for students who need more guidance.

More information will be provided on the SIL Google Sites in January 2023.