We have a few photos from the day sent in by our schools – these are just a window into the imagination and scope of events that were organised and wonderfully supported by our school communities, including the families of our children. World Book Day costumes are a traditional event in most schools up and down the country and we don’t underestimate the commitment to making this a success for each pupil. 

World Book Day has its roots somewhere in the 90s (there are reports of different dates) but however you look at it, that’s at least 3 decades of appreciating the amazing benefits of reading and the written word in all its forms. We are very keen to encourage a love of reading, however that works best for each and every child.

As the organisers of World Book Day promote: “If you’re into it, read into it” which frames it perfectly.

https://www.worldbookday.com

Our enthusiastic children started their art research, several weeks beforehand, by spending time out and about in Kirkby. They took walks around the area, observing local places, views and landmarks, visiting local spaces and taking photographs to inspire their work. Back in the classroom, they used these experiences to create their own individual artworks, developing pieces that reflect their personal view of their local area.

The artwork produced by the pupils reflected places of interest such as The Nag Clock. One of our teaching assistants is a Kirkby resident and has extensive knowledge of the town’s history. Everyone has been interested to hear more about the stories behind the places they see every day. 

“This works on so many levels” explained Mr Jevons-Newman. “For the research stage, the children enjoyed experiencing a change in their learning environment; they saw how a project came together from concept to completion; and it reminded them to really look around. We grow so used to our surroundings - it’s good to take a moment to really observe the landscape and history of where we live.”

Art is an important part of the curriculum here at Abbey Hill: vital for creativity, expression, well-being and communications. We follow a broad, rich art programme that has extended sketching into working with colour. This specific project allowed the pupils to reflect the art techniques they have learned, showcasing talent and skills.

The art exhibition was the result of a lot of preparation and hands-on work by the pupils. They were very proud to be able to show their work to friends and family – inspiring confidence and self-belief in their ability to produce work to high standards. It was also an opportunity for visitors to Abbey Hill to see the whole school as they visited each classroom. 

“It was lovely to see the beautiful artwork around school - and to see the children's talents! They're even better at art than I am” said one of our proud parents.

Darcy in Year 6 is the school's Deputy Prime Minister, a key role in the Children’s Parliament. She said: "It was nice to have parents in so that we could show off our art. I really enjoyed the project because I liked drawing a place and the view of somewhere I go often - and some people in our class noticed their own houses too!”

“Our school environment policy is underpinned by 4Cs: conducive, considered, celebratory and child-led” explained Mr Jevons-Newman. “An environment in which our children see themselves and their work celebrated tells a really important story – we are proud of you, of your learning, of your effort, of your talents.”

Press article here: https://www.chad.co.uk/education/abbey-hill-primary-and-nursery-school-showcases-visions-of-kirkby-in-its-pop-up-art-exhibition-5510333

It’s always about so much more than academic results – it’s about finding a school where your child will feel happy, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. One child might thrive in a lively, energetic, busy (noisy!) environment, whilst another could seek a quieter, slower-paced setting. Your child might be looking to be captain of every sports team whilst your friend’s child prefers making music or being in nature.

As a Trust, we work hard to make sure all our schools are places where children thrive, but we also understand how personal this decision is for every family. We know that choosing the right school for your child is an exciting journey, but it can feel daunting too, and it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start.

Meetings and activities are facilitated by Trish Wilson (Transform Trust Lead Associate), David Walton, (Head of Bagthorpe Primary School and coordinator of Children’s Parliament) and Sherrelle Johnson (Transform Trust Programme Administrator), and are also supported by teachers from their individual schools.

Communicating and collaborating together

Building confidence in leadership and public speaking is just one of the important outcomes we intend for our Children’s Parliament representatives. We want every child who takes part to feel a sense of belonging, and also to feel empowered to express their ideas, advocate for their communities, and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

At our second meeting of this academic year, the children shared with the room their experiences of speaking at school assemblies. Our adult facilitators encouraged the children to continue to volunteer for public speaking opportunities at school, and also to communicate and collaborate with their school councillors. It was wonderful to hear the pride in our children’s voices and their keenness to represent their schools. They are showing up and developing their leadership skills by becoming better listeners, learning to amplify the voices of their peers, and understanding the importance of being kind, loyal and respectful.

What makes a good leader?

During the day, the children explored what makes a good leader by discussing those well-known to them in the media, such as Greta Thunberg and Keir Starmer, and closer to home, of course, our very own CEO, Rebecca Meredith. In groups, the children asked each other open questions to determine how someone might have the making of a good leader: What motivates them? How do they prepare for events and speeches? What positive impact do they wish to make?

Isla, Year Six at Breadsall Hill Top Primary School believes that “an effective leader is someone who is the glue, holding a team together – someone who is respectful of the opportunity they are given to make people feel heard, and creates a safe and trusting environment so that everyone can feel heard and can speak up”.

During the summer holidays, the extensive, secure outdoor area used specifically for the school’s youngest children was transformed into a magical space full of awe and wonder to spark their curiosity, develop their physical, cognitive and social and emotional development, and encourage learning through play.

Outdoor learning through play offers a wealth of benefits for children, including: