posted by Alita Spink, Support Officer – Schools and Learning
News from the Commonwealth
What does ‘belonging’ mean to you
What does it mean to belong to a community or country? What does it feel like to be part of a group of people with similar interests or a shared background?
It’s time to get ready for the first Commonwealth Class debate of 2017, which will take place on Thursday 26 January. Join us in discussing what it is that gives your students a sense of belonging and makes them feel appreciated by the world and people around them.
We have all the tools and materials you need to steer your class through this thought-provoking topic, so make your way to Schools Online and prepare to share your students’ thoughts with their peers all around the globe.
The debate will start at 9.30am GMT on Thursday 26 January and will be facilitated live until 11.00am GMT, but you will still be able to post your comments on Schools Online until 2 February.
Prepare for January ‘s debate
Winners of children’s writing competition announced
We are delighted to announce the winners and commended entries from the Commonwealth Class story writing competition for children. Get your students prepped and ready for the next debate by reading some of these compelling short stories and illustrations on the theme of belonging (and maybe inspire a few to put pen to paper themselves). Click here to take a look at the winning entries.
The importance of young people in the Commonwealth
Did you know that the Commonwealth’s 52 member countries have a combined population of over two billion, and that more than 60 per cent are aged under 30? Prepare for the next debate by exploring how the Commonwealth works to make young people feel valued. Brush up on the value here.
Roll up, roll up: latest edition of First News out now
This month’s edition of First News is about celebrating the achievements of young people around the Commonwealth, the crucial role they play in their countries’ development – from activists, and entrepreneurs, to champion chess players and youth workers; we’ve got their stories covered.
Click here to download the resource for your students in preparation for
the next debate.
Latest Commonwealth resources and opportunities
New science resource now available
How can we feed our planet’s growing population? Say hello to our new teaching resource on the topic of global food security. Created in collaboration with the Royal Society, the resource is packed with lesson plans and suggestions for cross-curricular activities. The accompanying video is also the perfect way to kick off a lesson or discussion on this pertinent issue. Take a look at the materials.
Overseas postings available for UK teachers
Are you a UK teacher looking for professional and personal development? How does a 12-month post-to-post exchange overseas sound? The Royal Commonwealth Society is currently accepting applications from UK-based teachers for exchanges with colleagues in Australia and Canada. Click here to find out more about the programme and application process.
