Principal’s Blog #3
10 September 2019
Every generation finds its way
I’ve led assemblies across the academy this week on the theme of compassion. Central to this (alongside the music of the Beatles) has been a reflection of generational differences and how world events have shaped generation’s views, experiences and outlook. As I pointed out, the Principal is Generation X, most of the staff group are millennials and the student body is Generation Z. How generations communicate with each other and foster compassion was where I was searching for meaning. The answer is in there somewhere!
Student leaders met with me twice this week and have decided on a plastics project (linking up with Sky’s Pass on Plastics campaign which prompted a flow of ideas) and an academic quiz evening across the House system as a focus for after half term and the summer. I look forward to watching the students shape these ideas into an exciting reality. Ideas on the next wave of enrichment curriculum clubs were also forthcoming as the students start to see the importance to future employers of a contribution and experience beyond just qualifications. Employers and colleges constantly tell me it is people with a rounded experience, a diverse skill-set and ability to work in teams that they are looking for. Food for thought for our students given the size of the enrichment curriculum offer.
Miss Taylor and her group of student Sports Leaders have done a fantastic job coordinating the Primary sports event at SWS on Tuesday, whilst students also competed in Sports Hall Athletics on Wednesday. The performance of Kenzie Vyse was a highlight as he smashed the competition in what has been described as a ‘jaw-dropping show of athletic ability’. Well done Kenzie!
The Drop Down day programme lands on us again this coming Tuesday. Themes and experiences this time are: Road safety awareness, inputs from Police and Fire Service, the launch of the START (Careers) programme, the ILG Business Challenge and a visit from the highly praised Humanutopia group for Year 11. Give them a Google – we are expecting big things!
Across the SLT table this week we’ve been looking over Mrs Casewell’s plans for the February break programme. We will be open every day at half term for Year 11 including two days joining up with Alsager Year 11 students for some collaborative working – How’s that for commitment from our teachers! It’s all in for Year 11 as the GCSE season approaches.
I should also take this opportunity to thank the Site team for ensuring all our pathways and outdoor spaces were safe during the cold weather this week. Let’s hope the weather starts to turn away from winter over the coming weeks and days. Not my favourite time of year at all.
I’ll end by returning to the theme of compassion and finish with the quote from the late Jo Cox, MP, that I closed assemblies with. Across all forms of media our Generation Z’s hear a lot about division and building walls to separate us. This must be an overwhelming message at times and difficult to process. I reminded them that they will shape the future, not us, and it will be up to them to put some humanity back into view.
Have a great weekend,
Mr Fraser