w/b 09/02/26

We are now exploring what materials are actually inside our phones to educate ourselves on the how we can recycle and reuse these elements to reduce waste. To support us with this, our resident Science teacher, Mr Gibbons, came into each class to take apart a phone and share his knowledge about the different elements inside each component. 

12/02/26

We are exploring how the minerals used in mobile phone production are mined and the ethics behind this process. We are learning about where these minerals come from and the impact that this has on the land and people. We have focused on the Democratic Republic of Congo where there are an estimated 40,000 children working in the mines to provide these elements for our phones. As part of this exploration, Chris Jary from Amnesty International visited each class to share their work in raising awareness of child labour within supply chains for mobile phones. 

24/02/26

Our S1 classes were recently visited by Chris Jary from Amnesty International, who came to talk to pupils about child mining and exploitation in the mobile‑phone industry. During the session, pupils learned that some of the materials used to make phones, like cobalt, are sometimes mined by children working in dangerous conditions. Amnesty International helped the classes understand how this affects children’s rights and why it is important to think about where our everyday products come from. The visit encouraged pupils to ask questions, show empathy, and think about how they can make positive changes in the world. They were also offered the opportunity to sign their name on a letter to Nokia asking the company to investigate their supply chains for malpractice. 

The students then tried their hand at cobalt mining using a cookie to represent the earth and cobalt. They were only allowed one toothpick and had to make sure that they didn't get cookie dust on their skin as the materials that the children mine in real life are very toxic. This allowed the students to see how hard this was for them and for so little reward. 

11/03/26

Our S1 classes recently heard from a doctor from the British Institute of Lifestyle Medicine, who shared expert advice about how mobile phones can affect our wellbeing. The doctor explained in a clear and engaging way how too much screen time can impact our sleep, attention, and mood, and how constant notifications can make it harder for our brains to relax. Pupils learned simple, healthy habits—like taking regular screen breaks and switching off devices before bed—that can help them use technology more safely. The session gave our young people a better understanding of how to look after their health while still enjoying their phones responsibly.

12/03/26

Our S1 classes took part in a special assembly with our community police officer, PC Chris, to learn how to stay safe online and use social media responsibly. They talked about how important it is to protect personal information, choose strong passwords, and think carefully before posting or sharing anything. The officer explained how messages and pictures can spread quickly, even if you only send them to a friend, and why it’s important to be kind and respectful online. Pupils also learned what to do if something makes them feel worried or uncomfortable, and who they can talk to for help.