Falling on the first Thursday of October each year, National Poetry Day offers a wonderful opportunity to examine the power and beauty of poetry, celebrating both its role in the curriculum and the pure joy of reading it for pleasure. This year’s theme, “Refuge,” encourages our students to reflect on the idea of finding comfort and safety, not just in themselves but also in the stories we tell and the shared experiences which underpin them. It’s a reminder that their love for poetry connects them to a nationwide celebration.
The Notre Dame High School Library has accordingly been transformed into a poetry wonderland, highlighting a carefully curated collection of classic and contemporary poems. We want our students to know that poetry is not confined to textbooks but is a living, breathing art form meant to be explored.
Meanwhile, at our activity station, students have the opportunity to engage in a wide variety of creative projects, including some wonderful worksheets by National Poetry Day UK and a dedicated blackout poetry workshop. Armed with markers, they transform pages from old books into new poems, discovering hidden meanings within the text. It’s a fun and creative exercise that encourages close reading and critical thinking. The results are often breathtaking.
The Power of Poetry in Schools
Poetry plays a vital role in our curriculum. It hones language skills, enhances vocabulary, and fosters critical thinking. More importantly, it’s a medium for self-expression and self-discovery, especially during the challenging years of adolescence.
Reading poetry for pleasure is equally important. It allows students to appreciate the beauty of language and the depth of human emotions. It’s a lifelong journey of literary appreciation that transcends textbooks and exams.
National Poetry Day is about celebrating the joy of words. It’s a day of creativity, reflection, and inspiration. Poetry isn’t just lines on paper; it’s a bridge to understanding ourselves and the world.
Here’s to National Poetry Day and to the enduring magic of poetry, touching our students’ lives for years to come!
On National Poetry Day we had a visit from Anita Govan. Ms Longo’s S3 put their heart & soul into improvising and performing their own poems. Anita presented us with a copy of her book. What a fantastic day.
Alex Nye visited us for Book Week Scotland. S2 & S3 loved Alex’s ‘Art of the Ghost Story’ workshop. Miss Cameron & Mr Clarke’s classes came up with brilliant questions. A fascinating insight into being an author. Well done all!
A December highlight was a visit from Metaphrog (John & Sandra). It was amazing to learn all about the creative process. Our audience included our EAL Book Group, and our own published graphic novelists now in S4, who had worked with John and Sandra previously. It felt like a lovely family reunion.
