Celebrating Community and Pupil Voice – School Council and Eco Committee Assembly

Pupils in Years 2 to 8 gathered this week for a School Council and Eco Committee Assembly, reflecting on the work of both groups last year and looking ahead to their plans for the year ahead.

The assembly reflected on a successful year for the Eco Committee, which saw St Faith’s achieved the Green Flag Award with Distinction in recognition of the school’s commitment to sustainability. Pupils also celebrated Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday and reflected on his lifelong contribution to raising awareness of the natural world and environmental issues around the world.

A special thank you was given to Mrs Scott and Mr Elwood for their continued support of the Eco Committee and its many initiatives.

The assembly also provided an opportunity to welcome the newly elected members of both the School Council and Eco Committee. Pupils were presented with their badges, marking the beginning of their new roles and the responsibility they have taken on to represent their peers, contribute ideas and play an active part in school life.

This term’s theme is ‘Reusing’, encouraging everyone to think creatively about how everyday items can be given a second life rather than being thrown away. To introduce the theme, Year 3 and Year 4 pupils read their own poem about recycling, followed by examples of imaginative reuse from around the world. Among them was the story of an orchestra in Paraguay whose musicians create and perform using instruments made from materials that would otherwise have been discarded. Pupils also learned about William Kamkwamba from Malawi, who used recycled materials and scrap metal to build a windmill capable of generating electricity. Both provided striking examples of what can be achieved by looking differently at materials and resources that are readily available.

Pupils were then introduced to the Green Wyvern Award, which they can work towards at Bronze, Silver or Gold level. The award recognises individual efforts to make more sustainable choices and provides pupils with the opportunity to set themselves practical environmental challenges throughout the year. A video shown during the assembly explained how pupils can become involved and begin working towards the different award levels.

The School Council also outlined its plans for the year and how representatives will gather the views of other pupils. Council members will be available in Ashburton Courtyard during break times to hear opinions and ideas about what pupils would like the Council to discuss and take forward. This should provide another useful way for pupils across the school to contribute their thoughts and suggestions.

There is plenty, therefore, for both groups to take forward from their first assembly of the year. Whether through practical environmental choices or representing the views of their peers, the School Council and Eco Committee give pupils opportunities to turn ideas into action, and we look forward to seeing where those ideas lead over the coming months.

It’s the Little Things that Matter

In Monday’s Year 7 and 8 assembly, Mrs Critchley invited pupils to consider an intriguing question: what tells us more about a person, the big actions they take or the small things they do every day?

Pupils reflected on how our impressions of others are often shaped not only by achievements, awards or positions of responsibility, but by the everyday things we notice over time. Who can be relied upon? Who takes responsibility for meeting everyday expectations? Who shows respect, kindness and good manners? Who approaches tasks with care and attention to detail?

Mrs Critchley acknowledged that many pupils throw themselves into school life, taking on responsibilities and becoming involved in a wide range of activities. However, these visible successes are often supported by less obvious qualities: organisation, reliability, respect, resilience and attention to detail.

To illustrate this, she used the analogy of an iceberg. While the achievements that others see sit above the waterline, the much larger part of the iceberg lies beneath the surface. In the same way, the habits and attitudes that are often unseen can provide important foundations for the things we go on to achieve.

Mrs Critchley concluded by encouraging pupils to think about how the habits we practise when we are young can influence the habits we carry into later life. The small choices we make each day can contribute to our character and to the way we approach our responsibilities. The assembly was a reminder that achievement is not only about the moments that attract attention, but also the many smaller actions, habits and decisions that support them.

Science In Focus

Mrs Pritchard writes,

“Year 5 have been putting their scientific enquiry skills to the test by investigating forces and exploring how the size of a parachute affects the time it takes to reach the ground. Acting as real scientists, the pupils planned a fair test, carefully built their parachutes, collected and recorded their results, and presented their findings using tables and graphs. They then analysed the patterns in their data and used evidence to draw thoughtful scientific conclusions.

Year 6 have been sharpening their examination skills through a range of challenging exam-style questions. Alongside this, they have been developing valuable research skills, learning how to identify trustworthy sources, select the most important information, and present their findings clearly and effectively. These skills will support them across all subjects as they prepare for the next stage of their education.

Year 7 have been investigating the fascinating process of osmosis and learning about the important role of partially permeable membranes. Using Visking tubing as a model cell membrane, pupils carried out a practical investigation to discover which substances can pass through, and which cannot. By using Benedict’s solution and an iodine time clock they were able to observe glucose molecules moving through the membrane and see that larger starch molecules remained trapped, allowing pupils to gain a deeper understanding of how substances move into and out of living cells.

Year 8 have begun their study of photosynthesis, exploring how plants make their own food using energy from sunlight. To bring this process to life, pupils carried out a practical investigation to test leaves for the presence of starch, providing evidence that photosynthesis has taken place. They also explored how plants produce glucose and store excess glucose as starch, helping them understand the vital role photosynthesis plays in supporting almost all life on Earth. This exciting topic has encouraged pupils to think about the links between plants, food chains, and the wider environment.”

Creative Arts Theatre Technical Taster

On Thursday, the third and final Year 8 group took part in their Creative Arts Theatre Technical Taster at The Leys, gaining behind-the-scenes insights into the many creative and technical roles that contribute to theatre productions. From lighting and sound to stage management, these sessions have provided an insight into the wide range of roles available within the performing arts.

U13 Girls’ Hockey County Cup

Mrs Thompson writes,

“Our U13 Girls competed in the County Cup this week, delivering an excellent all-round performance. They played three group matches, winning two and drawing one, which secured us a place in a challenging semi-final against tournament favourites, The Perse.

It was a highly competitive game in which we created several strong chances, but were just unable to find the finishing touch. The Perse edged the match 1–0, but the girls can be extremely proud of how they performed against such skilful and determined opposition.

They responded brilliantly, finishing 3rd overall after a well-earned victory over St John’s in the play-off match. Although this result means we do not progress to the East round, there are many positives to take from the day.

Attention now turns to the IAPS next Friday, where the girls will face more excellent hockey schools and embrace another exciting challenge. Their commitment and competitive spirit continue to stand out, and we are looking forward to what comes next.”

ABRSM Music Examinations

Families are reminded that ABRSM entries were due this week, and we wish all pupils preparing for forthcoming music examinations well with their preparations.