OMNI week
Cultivating creativity, resilience, and collaboration.
At BiS, learning is more than just absorbing information; it’s about exploration, creativity, and hands-on engagement. OMNI week, a biannual event embedded in BiS’s core philosophy, is a testament to this approach. It’s an immersive, week-long adventure in science, materials, and technology that fosters self-directed learning, problem-solving, and teamwork among students of all ages.
What is OMNI week?
OMNI week is not just an event—it’s an evolution of BiS’s long-standing commitment to experiential learning. Historically, every day was an “OMNI Day” at BiS, where students engaged in self-selected projects under the guidance of educators and visiting experts. Today, OMNI week continues that spirit by providing structured yet flexible opportunities for students to develop practical skills and explore their passions in a collaborative setting.
Each term, students participate in multi-age group workshops designed around core topics such as Tinker Lab (woodworking), Textiles, Sculpture, and Mini Worlds. Over the course of the week, they move from skill-building sessions to designing and creating their own projects. The experience culminates in the OMNI Expo, a school-wide showcase where students present their creations and share insights into their learning journey.
The philosophy behind OMNI
At its heart, OMNI is about process over product—a key mantra that reminds students that learning is about the journey, not just the final outcome. The process emphasises:
- Self-directed learning – Students take ownership of their projects, developing autonomy and initiative.
- Problem-solving and resilience – Mistakes are not failures but essential steps in the learning process.
- Collaboration and leadership – Multi-age groups foster peer learning and mentorship, with students supporting each other’s growth.
This philosophy aligns with contemporary educational research, which highlights the importance of active learning, self-efficacy, and social collaboration. As students navigate challenges, they develop essential 21st-century skills such as flexibility, communication, and critical thinking—preparing them for real-world scenarios where teamwork and innovation are paramount.
How OMNI week transforms learning
OMNI Week is more than just an art or science fair; it’s a powerful catalyst for student growth. Some of the most striking outcomes include:
- Uncovering hidden leadership – Students who may struggle in traditional academic settings often thrive in OMNI, stepping up as leaders and problem-solvers.
- Empowering diverse learners – The hands-on, flexible nature of OMNI is particularly beneficial for students with ADHD and other learning differences, enabling them to channel their focus and creativity productively.
- Building life skills – From time management to collaboration, OMNI equips students with practical skills that extend beyond the classroom.
The role of parents and the community
Parents play a crucial role in supporting OMNI Week. Rather than focusing on the end product, parents are encouraged to engage with their children through thoughtful questions about their process, challenges, and problem-solving strategies. The BiS OMNI Cheat Sheet provides guidance on how to ask meaningful questions that reinforce the values of self-directed learning and perseverance.
Looking ahead: The future of OMNI
As BiS continues to refine and expand the OMNI experience, the school remains committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore, create, and innovate. With its foundation in constructivist education and real-world application, OMNI week exemplifies what’s possible in progressive learning environments.
Stay connected
Throughout the year, BiS will be sharing insights, student stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into OMNI Week on our social media channels. Follow along and celebrate the spirit of creativity and collaboration that defines our learning community.
OMNI Cheat sheet
Download our parent guides to understand your child’s motivation at their developmental stage and explore questions that spark deeper learning and connection from OMNI Week.
Omni projects still get a mention from time to time in my house (kids are now year 10 and started uni) and several of the pet rocks and other things sold are on shelves, desks and in memento boxes still. A valuable and enjoyable part of BIS!