The World is the True Classroom
Whilst what happens within the classroom is of integral importance and significance, some of the most powerful learning opportunities take place beyond the confines of the school grounds where students can experience first-hand the transformative impact of school trips and visits. It is these moments and occasions that can help our students to develop both academically and socially whilst beginning to understand the real-life context of learning and developing their sense of aspiration for the future.
This was so true of two trips that have taken place over the last week, with a number of our PE students embarking on a visit to the home of Lawn Tennis, Wimbledon. Not only did they get to visit the hallowed turf of Centre Court, they also learnt about the history of the sport, the development of Wimbledon as the centre of Tennis, and how athletes manage the tour circuit and constant competition at the highest level. Despite an unexpectedly long journey home, they returned having had a very special day indeed with memories that will inspire and excite. It was a very similar story for Charles S and Harley C who, as part of the East Suffolk Youth Council (along with their fellow Youth Councillors), spent the day visiting the Palace of Westminster and the home of democracy. They were superbly hosted by Lowestoft MP, Jess Asato, and were given a tour that included the House of Commons and the iconic green benches. As well as learning all about the democratic process, they had an opportunity to ask Jess questions about any political issues both local and national; the day was completed with a pertinent debate on whether social media should be banned for children under 16. Saint Felix is organising its very own trip in June having secured a slot as part of the UK Parliament Educational offering which is very exciting indeed; more details to follow in due course. With overseas trips to the Battlefields, Morocco (World Challenge) and France (Skiing) all taking place over the next three months, and with activity weeks in the second half of the Summer Term, we are trying to ensure that the broader learning experience is both rich and bountiful.
It is most apt that our very own students are debating the use of social media as its omnipresence has an impact that is immeasurable. As our children spend more time online for learning and recreation, it is important that we help them to navigate this safely, ensuring that the internet remains a positive and safe place for them to explore and learn. YOUNGMINDS Charity provides an invaluable resource for Parents and Carers and provides tips and advice for talking to your child about their use of social media and the internet. If you are worried about a young person’s exposure to harmful content online you are able to chat with Young Minds Parents Helpline for guidance specific to your situation. Please visit this website.
This week, we have been celebrating Saint Felix Day which fell on Sunday 8th March. In Chapel on Monday, as well as some beautiful music from Archie L, Jude H and Adrian C, we were reminded about the role that Felix of Burgundy (also known as Felix of Dunwich) played in bring Christianity to England. Felix was the first Bishop of the Kingdom of the East Angles and is mentioned in the infamous Anglo-Saxon Chronicle for preaching the faith of Christ; it is though in the “Ecclesiastical History of the English People”, written by the venerable Bede, that we get a more detailed picture of Felix and the important line that it was he who “freed the whole of his kingdom from long-standing evil and unhappiness” and started a school “where boys could be taught letters” and established the idea of teaching within the region. It is, therefore, not only a local and regional connection but one established due to the values that Felix displayed alongside the importance that he placed on education. Felix died in 647 or 648 and was canonized before the schism of 1054. Last night saw the annual Saint Felix Day dinner where students from Years 11 to 13 and staff not only enjoyed an excellent meal and fine company but also heard an inspirational speech from Old Felician, Charlotte Courtenay, on the importance of making the most of the opportunities that you are given, as you never know which one might lead to a future career path. For Charlotte, it was becoming an Organisational Psychologist and Coach which meant that she was able to give an insight into how careers can unexpectedly progress whilst delivering some excellent top tips to our two exam year groups on how to boost and maximise performance. I could see that they were taking it all in and hope that they will now suitably deploy these tactics over the next few months.
It was also International Women’s Day (IWD) on Sunday, a global day that celebrates the social, cultural, economic, and political achievements of women. This year marks 115 years of collective action, advocacy, and progress towards gender equality where IWD has helped drive transformative change with each generation building on the courage of those before it, pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible. In Assembly today, Holly R-W and Skye S took the lead on a student presentation highlighting the significance of this day and women that have inspired them. Everyone needs role models as they play such an important part in shaping our personal development, influencing our choices, and raising our aspirations. They serve as an example of what is possible and where our dreams may lie. It is a vital component of the educational journey, and it resonated with all.
On Wednesday, not only did ten agents from across the world visit Saint Felix looking to place international boarders, but we also celebrated National Pi Day which falls on Saturday 14th March. To mark the occasion (a few days in advance and with our special guests in mind), our wonderful Head Chef created a variety of Pi(e) related dishes that went down very well indeed! Whilst none of the students could quite match reciting the amazing number of digits that Dominica J achieved last year, they still displayed impressive feats of memory that will serve them well in future public examinations.
And finally, a little taster for the newsletter next week. A rather strange looking construction seems to have appeared at the back of Clough! I cannot reveal too much other than to say that we are expecting three very special visitors on Monday and they will be with us for the whole week. Very exciting!!
Have a wonderful weekend.
Yours sincerely,
Matthew Oakman
Head