A handful of local teachers were given a unique training opportunity where they delved into the shared history of Bermuda and the US.

As part of a partnership between the US Consulate General, the Bermuda Government and the Babcock American History Scholarship, four educators were invited to the Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute at Colonial Williamsburg, a short distance from the Jamestown settlement closely linked to the island.

Zonique James, Kievone Simmons, Denika Wade and Nekesha Holdipp all took part in the immersive training in July and August.

A spokeswoman for the US Consulate General said: “The Teacher Institute provides participants with interactive teaching techniques and skills to become mentors who can assist their peers and other educators in their community to develop active learning classrooms and make history exciting for their students.

“Training sessions include off-campus site visits in Historic Jamestowne, Colonial Williamsburg, and the surrounding area, where participants engage in an inclusive and relevant approach to teaching social studies focused on American history and civics.”

The programme offered teachers the opportunity to talk to historians, character interpreters and explore instructional strategies while learning teaching techniques intended to improve literacy, critical thinking and bring history to life.

Ms James, from Dalton E Tucker Primary School, said: “This was an eye-opening experience and a great opportunity to deepen our understanding of the historic US-Bermuda connection.

“The training sessions were highly interactive, offering valuable teaching strategies that we can implement in our classrooms.

“Additionally, we had the chance to explore continued collaboration opportunities with our peers from the United States.”

Ms Holdipp, an acting education officer with the Department of Education, added: “Our participation sparked a lot of questions and dialogue about the historic timeline between our two countries.

“We were able to highlight the importance of Bermuda’s role in US-Bermuda history, such as providing more context about the Sea Venture ahead of its pivotal journey to Jamestown.”

David Burt, the Premier, said the Government was proud to support educators in the expansion of their skills and sponsored air travel for the teachers.

He said: “Bermuda and the United States have enjoyed a long co-operative relationship, beginning with the Sea Venture’s fateful journey towards Jamestown in 1609.

“This journey ultimately brought the first settlers to our island and established our first capital, St George.

“Empowering our teachers strengthens our students' educational experience and enriches their understanding of Bermuda's historical connection to the United States.

“This initiative demonstrates our Government's continued commitment to supporting Bermuda’s educators and fostering an environment where they and their students can thrive.”

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of Education, added: “The Government of Bermuda extends gratitude to the US Consulate General and Carol-Ann Babcock for their continued support of our dedicated educators within the Bermuda public school system.

“Their commitment to providing immersive training in the historic US and Bermuda connection in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, is an invaluable resource for our teachers.

“This professional development and learning experience empower our teachers and, in turn, fosters optimal learning environments for our children and shapes a brighter future.”

The Babcock American History Scholarship is open to educators from private and public schools engaged in US-Bermuda history. Anyone interested in applying can e-mail haleycs@state.gov for more information.