How Can We Embrace Our Differences?

To start our topic, we researched the word diversity. Diversity means understanding that each person is unique, and recognising our individual differences. These can be things like our skin colour, the language we speak, or the traditions we celebrate. In class, the children watched a video about this topic. The video showed many different people and how everyone's differences make our world a more interesting place. 

After watching, each child what they were curious to learn more about diversity. To gather everyone’s ideas, we together and decided on what our main question for the project would be. They helped come up with the topic title 'How can we embrace our differences?'. This process allowed all the children to feel involved and gave them an opportunity to express their own thoughts and questions.

RVE - What influences me?

During a recent lesson, children engaged in watching a worldview clip and subsequently discussed individuals who hold influence over them. Within this discussion, children expressed that family members were deemed the most influential, primarily due to their guidance and support. We discussed about how social influencers, like celebrities and YouTubers, as well as religious figures, can shape our choices and lifestyles. 

Diversity Logo

The children carefully researched a variety of diversity logos, examining each detail closely. After thorough consideration, they each selected their favourite designs. They then sketched out these chosen logos on paper, and once their illustrations were complete, they eagerly shared their choices with the class, articulating the reasons behind their selections. Each student explained the symbolism behind their designs, conveying the diverse elements represented within each logo.

We've been completing science experiments learning about friction and more recently magnetic force.  The children really enjoyed making predictions, carrying out the experiments and seeing if their predictions are correct.

SEAL

Embracing our differences

During our lesson, the children engaged in a discussion about their preferences, similarities, and differences. We highlighted the significance of respecting others, even when their perspectives differ. Afterwards, they created celebratory posters reflecting on their unique qualities. 

Mood Boards and Self Expression

In our recent lessons, we delved into the concept of mood boards emphasising the significance of self-expression and creativity, the students embarked on a journey to create their own unique mood boards.

Through this engaging activity, students were able to visually communicate their thoughts, feelings, and ideas, fostering their artistic expression and enhancing their communication skills. By curating images, colours, and text that resonated with them personally, the students not only honed their creativity but also learned to articulate their emotions effectively.

Moreover, the process of crafting mood boards encouraged the pupils to explore their individuality, cultural backgrounds, and interests, thereby promoting a sense of self-awareness and empowerment within the classroom environment. Below are some examples.

Health and Wellbeing.

In the Curriculum for Wales, the term 'Health and Wellbeing' encompasses a holistic approach to developing students' physical, mental, and emotional wellness. There is great emphasis on fostering these aspects through collaborative activities that promote team work and well-being. One of the key strategies is engaging students in planning and designing activities that encourage teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. By working together towards a common goal, students learn the value of cooperation and mutual respect.

To complete our sessions this term we enjoyed a basketball game. This dynamic sport not only improves physical fitness but also hones valuable teamwork and leadership skills. By encouraging students to work together on the court, they learn to communicate effectively, support each other, and celebrate achievements as a team. Ultimately, this holistic approach to health and wellbeing helps students thrive academically and socially, preparing them for future challenges both in and out of the classroom.

Going For Goals

The Year 3 children worked in small groups to create and design some mini Olympic games in readiness to coach the Year 1 children. They used the equipment from the PE cupboard, showing imaginative ideas and great teamwork. The children had a fantastic time planning the games, ensuring that they were fun, inclusive, and promoted physical activity. Through this activity, the children not only enhanced their own physical health but also developed important social and leadership skills by coaching and guiding their younger peers. 

Cwmlai Olympics

The children had a fantastic time playing games with the year 1 students today. It was heartwarming to see the older children helping out the little ones - they were amazing at explaining the rules of the games and supporting their younger peers throughout.

Their collaborative and teamwork skills were on full display, making the whole experience enjoyable for everyone involved. The year 1 children were ecstatic to receive medals and certificates for their participation, and it was lovely to see their faces light up with pride.

Events like these not only encourage bonding between students of different ages but also promote a sense of responsibility and leadership among the older children. It's moments like these that truly showcase the caring and supportive environment we strive to create in our school.

Well done to all the children involved - it was a day filled with fun, laughter, and valuable learning experiences. Here's to many more successful collaborative activities in the future!