One of our core values was demonstrated in abundance through our last play session with the pupil’s expressing high levels of creativity in many forms.  On show were pupils:

• creating their costumes in preparation for World Book Day;
• using the junk materials to make a ferry, an alien spaceship and a mini-Lucas;
• creating an eco-house;
• creating masks from craft materials;
• building towers from KAPLA including the Eiffel Tower;
• designing comic books with imaginative storylines;
• continuing a project that has been on the go since the first week where a whole house is being created out of craft material.

Research shows that play is one of the most powerful tools for developing creativity in children.  Through play, pupils are using their brains to support their critical thinking and problem-solving skills as children approach challenges from different angles and find their own solutions to problems.  Play gives the children the opportunity to express their emotions which deepens their imagination and understanding as well as enhancing their communication skills through collaborating, negotiating and building on each other’s ideas.  Play gives the children the permission to experiment through trying new ideas, making mistakes and trying again.

We, as staff, are observing and encouraging the pupils to take ownership of their learning and are seeing pupils actively engaging in their own projects.  It is lovely to see the different age groups bounce their ideas off each other and working together to problem solve their ideas.

Whilst creativity is clearly on display, covering a multitude of curricular areas, it is rewarding to see our other core values of belonging, responsibility, enjoyment and health being demonstrated through our weekly play activities.  Here are some photos showing our values in fine form: