Fireflies and Shongololos: Termly Reflection
As the busy and exciting year draws to a close, our final term has been a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of laughter, rhythmic exploration, generous giving, and a sprinkle of teddy bear magic. The children have embraced every new experience with the boundless energy and curiosity that define our little Shongololos and Fireflies. A Morning of Fluffy Fun: The Teddy Bears’ Picnic
One of the undeniable highlights of this term was the much-anticipated Teddy Bears’ Picnic, held in the beautiful, sun-dappled expanse of Headmaster’s Woods. The day began with a buzz of excitement as the children arrived, clutching their most treasured, favourite fluffy friends, a menagerie of bears, rabbits, and other soft companions. Each child proudly introduced their guest, ready for a morning of shared adventure.
Under the canopy of the old trees, we first settled down for a cosy picnic. Together, we shared a delightful array of yummy snacks, the simple act of eating together in nature creating a wonderful feeling of community. Following this, the real adventure began: an exciting teddy bear hunt! The children meticulously followed a series of creative clues, designed to test their observation skills and teamwork. The air was filled with the joyous sounds of giggles and squeals, echoing merrily among the leaves as they worked together to find their hidden 'bear treasure.' This experience was not only a day of fun but also a valuable lesson in following instructions, solving simple puzzles, and fostering collaborative play.
Another special and meaningful part of our term was the SPCA drive. This initiative sparked much excitement and, more importantly, demonstrated the deep well of generosity and compassion within our young boys and girls. A dedicated collection area was set up, and the children eagerly watched the pile of donations grow each day, transforming a corner of our classroom into a visible testament to their kindness.
They took immense pride in their contributions, excitedly tallying the tins and packets of food they had gathered for the animals in need. This hands-on experience provided a tangible opportunity to talk about vital life lessons: kindness, empathy, and the importance of caring for those less fortunate than ourselves, including our furry friends. It was a powerful lesson in community responsibility, showcasing values that shine brightly in our Shongololos and Fireflies.
We also had the immense joy of welcoming a special guest group, Talking Drums, to Clifton this term. This immersive workshop introduced the children to the thrilling world of African rhythms and percussion. The energy in the room was electric and contagious.
The children were captivated by the vibrant beats, the different sounds produced by the various instruments, and the sheer volume of interactive sound. They weren't just passive observers; they were active participants, moving their bodies, tapping their feet, and enthusiastically clapping along as they explored music and rhythm in a wonderfully engaging way. This experience was a beautiful reminder of how much joy, coordination, and learning can come from exploring culture and sound through movement and hands-on play. It encouraged them to listen attentively, follow a beat, and express themselves creatively through dance.
As this memorable year draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the immense progress of our Shongololos and Fireflies. We are incredibly proud of how much each child has grown, not just academically, but more significantly in confidence, in forming strong, true friendships, and in nurturing their innate curiosity about the world around them. It has been a year filled with wonderful adventures, significant milestones, and countless moments of shared joy.
We look forward to seeing where their next journey takes them, confident that they will leave our classroom equipped with a strong foundation of kindness, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
