Developing our creative curriculum offer is an ongoing process in school. We are very fortunate to have staff with varying interests and the enthusiasm to explore different ways of engaging and inspiring our pupils. Our priority is ensuring the emotional health and well being of our pupils is nurtured.
Jack Pierce from the 'Schools Art Trust' was working with Year 2 and Year 5 pupils delivering singing workshops in preparation for 'The Big Sing' event later this term. Following the pupil workshops Jack did an additional session with teaching staff to develop their skills. Not only did pupils and staff learn a lot about singing, people felt positive, happy and inspired by the day.
Anti-Bullying
I am pretty like a princess,
I am busy like a bee,
I am proud because I am me.
We are all different
But that is OK.
What matters is the nice things we say.
I like to write.
I like Maths too.
But what's most important are the things we do.
- Amna, Class 12
Being Healthy
As part of their PSHE work, Year 5 have been learning the importance of keeping our minds and bodies healthy and the impact of diet and exercise.
Pupils were also able to talk about the impact of 'Calm Brain' routines, which are practised 3 times a day every day. This helps children to relax and have clear minds that are ready to learn.
Layla and Zara have designed a poster for the Short Wood Website to remind us what we need to do.
Calm Brain
Every day in every class we are practising 'Calm Brain'. 'Calm Brain' is about taking time to focus and develop the ability to regulate our feelings and emotional state. Movements set to music are practised and the results are powerful. Pupils are showing a more settled and focused manner towards their learning and many report 'just feeling calm'. We are working with Dr Sarah Taylor, a Clinical Psychologist, to embed this whole school approach with the aim of equipping all Short Woodies with valuable skills to find their own calm state that they can develop to support all aspects of their life.
Overall School: 95%