West Walton students mix it up

Rope-climbing, monkey bars and a muddy dyke were all on the agenda when students from a West Walton school swapped their classrooms for a day of untimetabled action.

Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 at Marshland High School all took part in a Super Learning Day which saw them enjoy a host of different activities.

“The day is when students come off timetable to complete activities to broaden their knowledge and have supra-curricular experiences,” explained Daniel Hudson, Second of Character and Culture at the school, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

It was the Year 7 cohort that undertook the physical challenges, spending the day at the Playground in Waterbeach.

“They completed a day to develop perseverance, teamwork and determination,” continued Mr Hudson. “They had the opportunity to work together to complete the challenges, and be successful, and they worked in teams to overcome challenges.”

Year 8 hosted a visit from police officer Hazel Tampin, who delivered a session on the dangers of drug abuse, as part of a personal development day which also covered racism, homophobia, diversity and equality, as well as leadership and career options.

University of East Anglia Outreach Office Chloe Parkes and two student ambassadors also spoke to the students about the benefits of attending university.

For the Year 9 students, the focus was on mental health and wellbeing, with sessions including mindfulness techniques; art and mental health; the impacts of mental health; and the science of mental health.

School Councillor Lucy Wright discussed how both exercise and creativity can boost mental health, and talked about how society views mental health, and the triggers that can lead to mental health problems in young people.

There was also a physical activity led by Steve King from Samurai Shotokan Karate School.

With life after school in their sights, the Year 10 year group spent their day concentrating on potential careers.

“This included encounters with local businesses, understanding labour market information, interview reflections and looking at future career options,” said Mr Hudson.

Representatives from businesses in the area addressed the students, who were also joined by Will Moffatt from Norfolk County Council, who talked about the job market.

“Super Learning Day enables all students to discover who they are, preparing them to build success for the future as active, caring and independent citizens, allowing them to have a positive impact on society,” added Dom Stannard, who is Head of Character and Culture at Marshland and co-organised the event.

“We build the knowledge and cultural capital of our students to support high aspirations for all, empowering them to discover who they want to be, and develop our school’s care value.”