Students and staff at Bluecoat Beechdale Academy enjoyed a Festival of Belonging recently, which focussed on creating a community where everyone feels seen, safe, supported and ultimately that they belong.
The day included interactive lessons, steel bands, stalls, dance, performances, glitter and face paint, cultural cuisines, cake sales and taste testing and was attended by all students across all year groups.
There were also guest speakers and sessions delivered by staff covering topics such as race, culture and community, gender equality, LGBTQ+ issues, neurodiversity and disability and language and the power of words.
Grace Balchin, Associate Principal for Teaching and Learning at the academy who organised the event, said: “We had a brilliant day at our Festival of Belonging. Our students really pushed themselves to understand each other and have shown that they all value the sense of belonging that exists at Bluecoat Beechdale Academy.
“It took a huge team effort to make the day such a success, and I’m so grateful for everyone’s contribution. In the spirit of belonging, everyone worked together on the preparation and running of the day to ensure we had great food, activities, space, equipment and sessions.
“Bluecoat Beechdale Academy is so special, and our students amaze me with their kindness, compassion and brilliance. I’m so proud to be part of a school which is a place of sanctuary and inclusion for everyone.”
