I have always been deeply intrigued by the inner workings of the human mind and the profound impact that introspection and contemplation can have on individuals of all ages. It is truly wonderful to experience a space where children feel free to express themselves and where they have a voice. It is a highlight for me when I have successfully created an environment where people can explore the bigger questions about life and the world around them - without fear of judgment or repercussion.
The 'Festival of Thought' is a dynamic, interactive space organised into distinct areas to address various aspects of thinking. Here, both children and adults alike are invited to reflect, let go, question, and engage with the deeper issues that often go unaddressed in our daily lives.
The Festival of Thought revolves around three main themes:
Thinking About Ourselves: spaces that encourage self-reflection and introspection, allowing children to explore their personal values, beliefs, and emotions in a nurturing environment.
Thinking About Our Communities: spaces that allow us to delve into topics related to our immediate surroundings and the communities we belong to, fostering a sense of connection and responsibility towards one another.
The invaluable thoughts and ideas shared by our children, staff, visitors, and governors are crucial in shaping our Personal, Social and Health (PSHE) curriculum. This feedback loop allows teachers to respond directly in the classroom to the major themes that emerge.
To me, the ideal way to teach Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World is to ensure the curriculum is relevant; pupils are much more likely to engage when they see themselves reflected in their learning.
Ultimately, these ideas should be embedded in every aspect of school life and be at the heart of every conversation with every child. We should teach them through history, geography, PE, maths and music. Most importantly, they should be part of our ongoing dialogue with the wider school community, ensuring that every voice is valued, heard, and addressed.
You can grab a few starting resources for your own "Festival of Thought" on my TES shop, but please feel free to put your own spin on it! The best results come from tailoring the experience to fit your school's unique vibe and your pupils' specific needs.