News

Safer Internet Day 2026: Navigating the World of AI 

On Tuesday, 10th February, St Stephen’s joined millions of people across 170 countries to celebrate Safer Internet Day. This global event is a moment for us to celebrate the incredible opportunities technology provides, while also taking a breath to discuss the worries and responsibilities that come with being online.

This year’s theme, 'Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI', felt particularly relevant as Artificial Intelligence becomes a bigger part of our daily lives.

What We Learned in School

Our pupils dived into the world of algorithms and data to understand how these 'smart' systems actually work.

• In KS1: Our younger learners focused on the technology they see in their living rooms - Voice Assistants (like Alexa or Siri). We explored how they help us find music or tell us the weather, but importantly, we learned that they aren't real people. They don't have feelings, they don't have a heart, and - as the children noted - they definitely can't give you a hug!

• In KS2: The older children tackled the definition of Artificial Intelligence. We compared the human brain to a computer brain. While AI is brilliant at spotting patterns and using "data" to make decisions, it lacks the human 'spark'. It cannot dream, use imagination, or understand emotions the way we can. The children debated "Okay vs. Not Okay" scenarios, questioning their values to decide when AI is being used to help others and when it might be used to trick or upset people.

Why this matters: As AI continues to evolve, we want our pupils to be more than just users of technology—we want them to be critical thinkers. By understanding that AI is a tool, not a person, they can use it safely, responsibly, and creatively.

Reception Explore Lunar New Year Traditions! 

Our Reception class recently embarked on a vibrant cultural journey, diving into the rich traditions of the Lunar New Year! It was a truly special experience, made even more memorable by the incredible involvement of our wonderful parents.

We were so fortunate to have several parents join us to share their cultural heritage, making the learning come alive. Through interactive discussions and engaging presentations, the children learned about the significance of the Lunar New Year and the customs celebrated by families around the world.

The parents kindly shared stories, showed traditional clothing, and explained the meaning behind various symbols and decorations. The children were fascinated to hear about the different ways families prepare for the new year, from special foods to festive gatherings. The children then had a fantastic time participating in a variety of themed activities and crafts. 

Unleashing the Wild Things in Craft Club!

Our Year 1, 2, and 3 Craft Club has been bustling with creativity on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons! This term, Mrs Garner and her talented art clubbers have been drawing inspiration from author and illustrator Maurice Sendak, the creator of the classic Where the Wild Things Are.

The children have been looking closely at how Sendak used cross-hatching and fine black lines to create his iconic textures and patterns.

To start their journey, the group worked together on a massive collaborative background. Using only biros and felt tips, they practiced the art of line-making to build up depth and shadow. Once the intricate black-and-white foundation was laid, they added vibrant pops of colour using soft pastels.

The following week, our artists moved on to individual projects. Each child designed and created their very own monster habitat, applying the techniques they learned to make their unique environments feel textured and "wild."

Did you know? Maurice Sendak’s signature style relies on a technique called cross-hatching, where overlapping sets of parallel lines are used to create different tones and textures.

A huge well done to all our Tuesday and Wednesday crafters!