Second Primary Conference
Following the success of the first Impact Education Year 6 Conference, last autumn saw the return of the full-day event, proudly hosted by one of our secondary academies Castle Hall Academy.
The conference brought together over 250 Year 6 students from our primaries and alternative provision across our Trust, with the aims of promoting self-esteem and wellbeing, raising aspirations and providing a sense of belonging to the family of schools within Impact Education.
The day began with a welcome from Mick Kay, CEO who spoke about the importance of trying new things, working hard, aiming high and treating others with kindness.
Following Mick Kay’s message, Paul Brook, Headteacher at Castle Hall Academy spoke to the children about personal journeys. He began by describing his own experiences of planning, persevering and overcoming obstacles to reach his goals, before encouraging the children to think about their own futures, setting their own goals and planning their own journeys. He emphasized the importance of developing individual strengths and independence and of good friendships and receiving support when needed.
Continuing the theme of journeys, the next session was led by Compass for Life who guided the children through creating a personal map that will take them directly to their own Super North Star. In completing their maps, the children considered the skills and values that they need, such as flexibility, resilience, honesty and integrity, to navigate their way through life and grow into well-rounded adults with a clear sense of self and purpose.
In addition, the children took part in a range of smaller group activities, including acting, drumming, paper sculpting, illustration, coding, fire building, dodgeball, teambuilding and science experiments, led by a fantastic group of external visitors. It was fantastic to see our trustees getting involved in the activities with the children and thank you to those who agreed to be set alight in the science labs!
The children enjoyed snacks, a delicious buffet lunch and freshly baked muffins to take home, provided by the talented Impact Education Catering Team.
Comments from the children:
- I liked that it was fun and we had different people from other schools in our teams (Sport workshop, WRA)
- I have learnt that you must work hard to achieve something (WRA)
- I enjoyed making new friends (WRA)
- He said things which made me feel better about high school (WRA)
- Teambuilding was very good as I experienced activities with people I didn’t know
- I have learnt that you should always trust yourself
- I have learnt that life isn’t easy. There will be difficult challenges along the route
- Their inspirational talk inspired me
- The teacher was funny and kind
- I have learnt to keep going in life
- I feel more confident
- I have learnt to have patience
Trustee Phil Shire said “The children blossomed and mixed well with other children from different schools. It was nice to see them working together on the activities.”
Thank you to everyone involved who ensured the day ran smoothly and successfully.