It was lovely to welcome pupils back to school during Monday’s assembly. There always seems to be a more positive vibe once the halfway point of the school year has passed. My assembly interwove themes of Faith, Tolerance, Acceptance, and Kindness; I was inspired by the number of faith-based events that occurred or started over half term, many of which are represented by members of our community. I explored with pupils the idea that there is space for different ideas and beliefs to exist alongside each other, and allowing someone else their beliefs, does not have to mean the erosion of others. I encouraged the pupils (with some help from Ted Lasso!) to be curious, not judgemental, and that to learn about another culture or practice did not mean they were losing something of their identity, but gaining more understanding of someone else’s. I reminded them of our school values, specifically kindness, how debate could end in respectful disagreement, and that curiosity and research does not mean conversion or condoning, rather it brings knowledge and understanding.
Dr Holbrook continues to promote curiosity through the senior half termly House challenges, which always involves a research-based task designed to encourage research and a broader understanding of the world in which we live. Weekly news, quizzes and mini tasks also continue to feature in form time too. The House assemblies really are a highlight; pupils lead the assemblies with various tasks displaying their findings and creativity. I am hoping to be able to share more of the work pupils produce via photos and videos from the end of this term.
A final request from me: I too am doing my research to understand which cultural and religious events are important to our community, if you feel I have missed something please do let me know.
Ever Onward and Upward
Ms Purdy