When November comes around, the leaves on the trees have turned beautiful shades of orange and brown, and there's a nip in the air that signals the approach of winter. For the young learners at Westminster Children's University, November is a month full of exciting opportunities and adventures.
We welcome you to another wonderful month this November at Westminster Children's University, where every day is filled with exciting adventures, creativity, and opportunities to learn and grow together. Did you know November includes World Origami Day? We'll celebrate on 11th November, and you’ll get a chance to try your hand at the fascinating Japanese art of paper folding. Our art teachers will guide you in creating beautiful origami shapes, like paper cranes and boats. These simple yet artistic activities help improve focus and creativity. Don’t miss out on making something you can proudly display!
We have a fantastic line-up of activities and events just for you, so let's dive in and see what's in store!
From 13th to 17th November, we will be joining schools across the country for Anti-Bullying Week. This year’s theme is “Reach Out,” so we'll be focusing on kindness and how our actions can make a big difference to others. You'll participate in a kindness challenge, where you’ll try to do at least one kind thing each day. Whether it's sharing a smile, offering to help, or playing with someone who's alone, every small act of kindness counts.
This month, students can jump into a variety of fun and educational workshops. From science experiments that will make you say “wow!” to creative art projects that let your imagination soar, there's something for everyone. Imagine mixing colourful liquids to learn about chemistry or creating a masterpiece with paints and crafts. It's the perfect way to learn while having loads of fun!
At Westminster Children's University, November is a great time to explore the beauty of nature. Children can participate in guided nature walks, where they might spot a squirrel gathering acorns or a hedgehog getting ready for winter. These walks teach children about the environment and help them understand the importance of taking care of our planet.
November is perfect for exploration. We'll have nature walks in our lovely school gardens to learn about the plants and animals preparing for winter. Additionally, our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) challenges will pique your curiosity with fun experiments, like building the strongest bridge with everyday materials or observing the wonders of magnetism.
If you're full of energy and love working with friends, the sports and team challenges are just right for you! Whether it's running, playing football, or taking part in fun obstacle courses, these activities teach teamwork, improve fitness, and, most importantly, are a lot of fun especially with our new friends Nexaim who will be joining your schools shortly!
Young adventurers at the children's university have the chance to build new skills through interactive sessions in our Forest School at St John’s. From learning how to cook simple and delicious snacks to trying out basic coding, the skills learned here are ones you can use throughout your life. Imagine being able to make your own tasty treats or create a game on a computer just like our new coding club at Hallfied with the super Sarvinaz Ranjbah!
November is also a time for special events at Westminster Children's University. On 10th November, we'll observe Forget Me Not Day, a time to reach out to people we may not see often but want to remember fondly. We’ll have a class project to write letters or draw pictures for residents at a local care home such as a Juniper House. It’s a heart-warming way to show we care and make new friends.
There might be a cozy story time hour where you gather around to listen to fascinating tales at home or at story club or a craft club where everyone can make and display or even sell your creations. These events bring everyone together and create a sense of community and belonging. Thanksgiving is celebrated on 23rd November in some parts of the world, and even though it's not a British holiday, we'll be having fun learning about its traditions. In our activity, "Thanks and Giving," you could try and write thank-you cards to someone you're grateful for. This could be your family, friends, or even your favourite teacher! It's a lovely way to show appreciation and spread joy.
By participating in these activities, children not only learn new things in a fun and engaging way but also make new friends and create joyful memories that will last a lifetime. Westminster Children's University offers a magical experience in November, inviting children to explore, learn, and grow in an environment that's as warm and welcoming as a hug on a chilly autumn day.
So, as you pack your backpacks and put on your sweaters, get ready for a November filled with discovery and delight at Westminster Children's University! Exciting Adventures in November at Westminster Children's University
So there you have it, a fantastic November awaits at Westminster Children's University! We hope you're as excited as we are to learn new things, make friends, and have loads of fun. Remember, every day is an adventure when you're with us.
Happy learning, and see you soon!
Discovering the Magic of Community, Autumn and Learning this October
Hello everyone! As I sit here looking out at the trees outside in our playground with their bright golden and orange leaves and watch October arrive, I find myself reflecting on the wonderful experiences and adventures September offered us here at Westminster Children's University. The crisp autumn air, combined with the vibrant colours of the season, has created the perfect backdrop for learning, exploring, and growing together as a community.
Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the WCC Paddington canal side Festival, not just as an attendee but also as a curator and community councillor. This role allowed me to feel more deeply connected to our community. The festival was a highlight for me, brimming with joy and excitement as we worked tirelessly to create memorable experiences for everyone involved.
One of my favourite moments was watching little faces light up during our face painting sessions. It was heart-warming to see the children's excitement as their faces transformed into colourful butterflies, superheroes, and more, each design sparking joy and imagination.
Collaborating with beloved authors Freddie Sandilands and Renata Kaminska was another magical experience. Their storytelling sessions captivated young minds, transporting them to worlds of adventure and wonder. It's these moments of creativity and imagination that truly make our community special.
More than anything, the festival exemplified what it means to come together as a community. Families, children, and educators and professionals from all walks of life joined forces to celebrate and learn from each other. This spirit of teamwork and inclusion is something we hold dear at Westminster Children's University, and it was inspiring to see it in action.
As we turn the page to October, I'm filled with anticipation for the exciting events we have planned. Our goal is to continue inspiring our young learners and their families, nurturing creativity, curiosity, and joy along the way. I'm particularly thrilled about diving into the world of creativity with our Arts and Crafts sessions. There's something magical about using the colours and textures of autumn to spark imagination. I can't wait to see what our young artists come up with as they let their creativity shine.
This October’s educational adventures there promise to be an enlightening experience, where children will explore the wonders of the season. They'll learn about the environment, the changing seasons, and how vital it is to care for nature. It's a chance to connect with the world around us and appreciate its beauty.
They will also get the chance to see the chickens and hives at the mini farm .Witnessing our young learners interact with friendly animals and engage in hands-on farming activities will be truly delightful. They'll discover the world of sustainable farming practices, understanding where food comes from and the importance of caring for our planet. These activities are carefully curated to ensure each child and their family is fully engaged and joyful. Our aim is to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and nurture a lasting love for learning.
I'm absolutely thrilled to tell you all about some incredible free events happening in London this October. Whether you dream of grand adventures, have a passion for art, or simply love trying new things, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s jump right in!
1. River Thames Festival
Picture yourself strolling along the magical River Thames, where the sky lights up with music, colours, and art. This festival is a sparkling celebration with lots of fun activities, such as live music and dance performances, and eye-catching art installations. You'll soak in the lively energy and get to experience diverse cultures all in one enchanting place.
Why you might love it: The festival is full of creativity and interaction. It's a fantastic chance to learn about new cultures, enjoy live performances, and maybe even discover a new favourite artist.
2. Science Open House Days
Calling all curious minds! London's top science museums and centres, like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum, are opening their doors for free this month. There will be special workshops and exhibitions where you can explore the universe, the wonders of nature, or the coolest technology. Westminster University’s Scientists are also available to visit your schools so let us know if you would like a school’s science experience.
Why you might love it: Engaging with hands-on exhibits, experiments and meeting real scientists doing science demonstrations can be incredibly inspiring, sparking your imagination and a potential passion for science!
3. Art in the Park
This outdoor art event turns London’s parks into enormous open-air galleries. Artists from around the world showcase various works, from sculptures to interactive pieces, creating a world where creativity has no limits.
Why you might love it: Walking through art pieces and chatting with artists can expand your mind to new ideas and viewpoints. Plus, it's a wonderful way to relax and enjoy nature with art. You could make your own temporary autumnal art while you’re there out of the fallen leaves and twigs, if you photograph it and share it we can share it online for you via your WCU Coordinator.
4. Storytelling Sessions at Local Libraries and the Floating Classroom Story Telling Project
Dive into magical tales with storytelling sessions in libraries across London. Skilled storytellers bring stories to life, sharing everything from classic fairy tales to adventurous and heart-warming tales.
Why you might love it: Listening to stories is not only fun but also a fantastic way to enhance your language skills and imagination. It's also a chance to meet friends who love the same stories!
5. Urban Wildlife Adventures
Join guided walks through some of London's green spaces with the royal parks to uncover the urban wildlife sharing our city. You might spot birds, insects, and even small mammals, with activities like nature journaling or photography included. You can see what is planned and book with your parents by visiting what’s on? On the Royal Parks Website
Why you might love it: Being in nature is calming and educational. These adventures help you connect with the environment and might even inspire an interest in biology or conservation.
6. Historic London Treasure Hunt
This city-wide treasure hunt takes you on a historical adventure through London. Solve puzzles and follow clues that lead to historic landmarks and hidden gems.
Why you might love it: It’s an exciting way to learn about London's rich history while challenging your problem-solving skills. It’s also a wonderful activity to do with friends or family.
London has so many sights to see, and this free scavenger hunt will lead you to all the best places, local haunts, and have you keeping an eye out for what makes London unique!
Scavenger Hunt Checklist for London Example
Item Points
Big Ben Clock Tower 4
Buckingham Palace Changing of the Guard 3
Tower Bridge 5
London Eye Ferris Wheel 4
Trafalgar Square Nelson’s Column 2
Piccadilly Circus Neon Signs 3
St. Paul’s Cathedral Dome 5
Covent Garden Street Performers 2
The Shard Skyscraper 3
Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station 4
Millennium Bridge 5
Camden Market Street Art 4
Royal Albert Hall 3
Abbey Road Zebra Crossing 2
The Gherkin Skyscraper 4
The British Museum Rosetta Stone 3
Piccadilly Circus Statue of Eros 2
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre 3
Leaden hall Market 5
Brick Lane Street Art 4
Harrods Egyptian Escalator 3
Tate Modern Turbine Hall 2
Notting Hill Portobello Road Market 4
The Cutty Sark Ship 3
Primrose Hill Panoramic Viewpoint 2
The Clink Prison Museum 3
Borough Market Food Stalls 4
The British Library King’s Library Tower 2
Royal Observatory Greenwich 3
The Royal Exchange 4
How to Play
This is a list of things to see in the city. Some of them are popular tourist attractions while others are more local secrets. For each item, you (or your team) need to take a picture/or do a drawing if your teacher is there to confirm you saw it, that shows both you and the listed item. For each photo you take, you’ll get the corresponding amount of points listed to the side of that item.
At the end of the allotted time for the scavenger hunt, you can see what level of rank you’ve earned and whichever team has the most point’s wins! You’ll be allowed to go to City Hall and ask for a key to the city. (We haven’t actually made any arrangements, but it doesn’t hurt to ask, right?)
Additional considerations for how you play:
You will need at least three hours for the scavenger hunt in London while smaller hunts like school could last 30 minutes, just be sure to have a limit on the time you’re focused on this activity, but how long it takes is up to you.
If you’re traveling as part of a group and don’t want to split up, we’d recommend treating this as a game of I-Spy and awarding points to whoever in the group spots the item first or takes the first photo.
It’s up to you how tough you want to make it with respect to awarding points just for seeing something, or if you have to go inside, or taking it further and requiring even more depending on the location.
Score and Rankings
How about making a treasure hunt for your favourite place or school, Give harder to find things a higher mark and easier finds a lower value, you can list as many or few as like and set a time limit for participants if you like.
7. Youth Music Jams
If music is your passion, this event is for you! Join young musicians for a relaxed jam session at local community centres or public spaces. Whether you play an instrument or love to listen, everyone is welcome. You could get involved with Music Rock Stars Workshops at QPP, join us at the RAH in November for Future Makers or perhaps you heard the cultural music stalls at the Paddington Festival or the Caribbean Festival in September?
Why you might love it: Sharing and discovering music with others is incredibly rewarding. It's an opportunity to express yourself and perhaps learn new music from fellow musicians.
These events are just a peek at what's available and can make your October in London truly unforgettable. They promise not just fun, but also learning, growing, and connecting with others. So, grab a friend or head out solo to enjoy the amazing free experiences London offers this autumn!
Happy exploring!
I'm so grateful to be a part of the Westminster Children's University family. Being surrounded by such enthusiastic learners and supportive families fills me with happiness and inspiration every day. As we continue our journey together, I am eager to learn, explore, and grow alongside all of you.
Here's to another season of growth, discovery, and togetherness!
Hello everyone!
I hope this newsletter finds you all well and rested after a wonderful summer. As we embark on another exciting school year at Westminster Children’s University, I am thrilled to share all the fun and enriching activities we have planned over the next six months. Our calendar is bursting with creativity, learning, and adventure, ensuring there is something for every child to enjoy and explore.
In September, we have a fantastic start with our STEM month. We are planning fascinating visits to Kew Gardens and launching new clubs that promise to inspire our young learners. Our Art Club kicks off on Mondays from 4 to 6 PM, where budding artists can unleash their creativity. With just 10 spaces available, children will dive into both free and guided drawing, filling up their sketchbooks with colourful art and imagination. Story Club on Tuesdays is a thrilling opportunity to adventure through storytelling at the floating classroom. Our journey begins with Halloween-themed tales and will sail into enchanting folk stories guided by storyteller Lisa Schneidau. By the end of the six-week collaboration, with the expertise of Carolene from Swallows’ Wings Puppetry, we'll create pop-up books, making our storytelling vibrant and dynamic.
The fun continues on Wednesdays with the Animal Appreciation Club. Each week, children explore the wonderful world of animals and plants through documentaries, research, and art. Thursdays are dedicated to IT skills at our school, offering students a chance to enhance their digital literacy with safe access to amazing online resources. This initiative ensures all pupils have equal opportunity to technology and learning. At the end of the week, the Queen's Park IntoFilm Club awaits! Every Friday, young film enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the magic of cinema, exploring films and discussing the art of filmmaking.
As we transition into October, we're embracing the autumn spirit with Halloween storytelling, arts, and crafts. November introduces our Young Entrepreneurs Launch, and our exciting Pet Empathy Project will help children develop compassion and understanding for animals. December is filled with festive cheer. From school productions and pantomimes to holiday clubs and visits to London's landmarks, the month promises memorable moments for all.
As we move into January, we announce the availability of Mind Up and Dog Mentoring in partner schools. This month, we also start engaging activities under the Art Award and Twin STEM project at Brent Cross. February rounds off our exciting six-month plan with a focus on the Forest School, Jubilee Sports Events, and the Roots of Change Project launch. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is evident with our initiatives such as the SEND project involvement and the Young Business sessions.
Throughout these months, we will ensure that our offerings provide equal access to learning and creativity. Over the summer holidays or WCU Summer Camp was a great way to get active and explore together.
Our Holiday Club offered 25 days of fun for children, with visits to incredible locations like Kew Gardens and Kensington Palace. We proudly provided well over 1,000 meals and snacks, with a third of attendees welcomed from our partner schools.
We are grateful for the support of partners and suppliers and the participation of parents on trips was an amazing experience, ensuring a community bond during the holiday project it was wonderful spending time together.
As always, our aim is to cultivate an environment of exploration, creativity, and growth for every child, our holiday club welcomed 12 SEND participants and 11 under 0-6 year olds demonstrating both the need and success of this commitment .
We eagerly look forward to seeing the smiles and hearing the laughter of our young learners as we embark on these adventures together. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm.
Westminster Children's University has wrapped up another exceptional year, marked by significant milestones and heart-warming stories. Situated in the culturally rich yet economically diverse region of West London, our university has been a beacon of hope and an engine for positive change to thousands of students. Our location comes with its own set of challenges, from economic disparities and socio-cultural dynamics to limited resources for some families. Yet, it also opens a wealth of opportunities. West London's diverse tapestry offers broad educational experiences at its museums, historical sites, and vibrant communities.
This year, we proudly celebrated over 3,200 students graduating, adorned in our distinctive blue and black gowns, signalling not only an educational success but also a continuation of our valued traditions. The growth we have observed stands as a true testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the commitment of our supporters, including the invaluable contributions from the John Lyons, Westminster Foundation, Axis, St John's, and WCC. Their partnership has allowed us to expand our impact and enhance the learning experiences we offer.
Students have engaged deeply with learning beyond the traditional classroom. Visits to the Royal Palaces and museums have not only enriched their historical and cultural understanding but also inspired aspirations for their futures. The arts have played a significant role in our curriculum, involving students in theatre performances, musical showcases, and dance events. These cultural engagements have nurtured talent and encouraged creativity, serving as an integral part of their educational journey.
Despite economic difficulties in parts of our community, these initiatives, supported by 450,000 hours of outreach, have strengthened the bonds between local families, schools, and stakeholders. These collective efforts have cultivated a stronger community spirit and provided students with invaluable support networks.
Our achievements have captured the attention of local media, enhancing our online presence and celebrating the transformative educational experiences we provide. This recognition not only motivates us but also underlines the importance of our work.
Looking ahead, Westminster Children's University has planned a vibrant calendar for the upcoming year. Our future programs aim to include exciting elements like cultural experiences embracing both ABBA enthusiasts and sumo wrestling! Seasonal festivities for the community and enlightening film festivals will be organised to inspire both fun and learning. We are committed to fostering creative minds through 'Future Makers' projects and engaging students' strategic abilities in Dungeons & Dragons and gaming sessions. Importantly, we will persist in prioritising our students' safety and wellbeing through dedicated street safety courses.
The start of the new academic year represents a pivotal moment for our work in fostering Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) projects across Westminster nurseries. Our plan for 2025-2026 includes an additional, tailored offer that complements our core provision. This initiative aims to enrich the educational experiences of young learners, ensuring every child, regardless of their needs, has access to quality education that supports their growth and development.
This work is vital for our community. By supporting EYFS and SEND initiatives, we are laying the foundation for lifelong learning and ensuring that every child has the tools they need to thrive. Providing a nurturing and inclusive environment helps children build confidence, develop essential skills, and fosters a love for learning from an early age.
We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive in this endeavour. The assistance from John Lyon’s Charity, through special core funding, plays an instrumental role in making this possible. This collaboration allows us to tailor our offerings to meet the specific needs of our children, ensuring no one is left behind.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to St John’s and Axis for sponsoring our Forest School site, which provides invaluable outdoor learning opportunities. Their contributions significantly enhance the holistic education we offer, nurturing both the minds and spirits of our young learners.
Finally, congratulations to Esther Wilson and Louise Cullen, and the entire QP team on their upcoming Forest School Association (FSA) accreditation. This achievement represents their dedication and commitment to excellence in education, and it holds great promise for the future of our programs.
Together, we are making meaningful strides in shaping a brighter tomorrow for our children. Thank you to everyone involved for their unwavering support and commitment to education.
In conclusion, as we stand at the threshold of another promising year, we take this moment to convey deep gratitude to the teachers, students, families, and all stakeholders who have been pivotal to our success. The heart and effort each has contributed have made a world of difference. With eager anticipation, we move forward with the shared goal of nurturing and empowering children to dream, discover, and achieve greater heights.
It’s June, and this is our last half-term of the academic year. We hope you are having a great time at school and enjoying the lovely weather too. What did you do this last half-term? Last week was an exciting one at WCU, filled with enriching experiences that perfectly highlighted the culmination of our school's activities leading into June, a significant month for schools across England. We had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the WCU Camp. The experience kicked off with an inspiring journey on the Floating Classroom at Paddington. This unique setting was where students had the pleasure of hearing tales from a captivating storyteller, allowing their imaginations to set sail alongside them on the gentle waters. Storytelling, as we know, is a powerful tool for learning, unlocking creativity, and fostering a love for literature and culture among children.
Our adventures didn't stop there. We also visited the beautiful gardens of Kew. This visit opened up a world of botanical wonders, offering the students a first-hand look at a vast array of plants from around the globe. My favourite is the Princess Diana Conservatory for rainforest and Jungle, the Lilly House for Victorian-style beauty and the amazing Great Palm House. It was an invaluable experience that showcased the beauty of nature and science in one of London's most stunning green spaces.
Our stop at Topsy-Turvy in Brent Cross proved to be a day of fun and activity as usual, offering the students a dynamic environment to learn through play. We know at WCU that such activities are essential in encouraging physical development, teamwork, and social skills, all within a fun and engaging setting. Furthermore, our collaboration with Dream Arts this holiday allowed students to express themselves creatively. It provided a platform for them to harness their imaginations and gain confidence through the performing arts. These activities are vital in nurturing emotional intelligence and artistic abilities, making them an excellent way to spend the holiday.
As we step into June, a month that holds particular importance in the educational and schools calendar, there is much to look forward to. After the hard work and dedication shown by you all in preparing for and completing the SATs, we are all ready to embrace a sense of freedom and exploration. This completion marks a moment of achievement and relief, celebrated by teachers and students alike ,we are even throwing two adult enrichment events in June to mark this.
Moreover, June provides the perfect opportunity to take education beyond the classroom, especially in a vibrant city like London. Getting out and about, exploring various parts of the city, and immersing oneself in its rich history and culture serve to enhance the learning experience. Not only do these outings help reinforce classroom learning, but they also promote independence, curiosity, and a sense of adventure.
Experiencing the vibrant city of London through a week-long programme called "London is Fun" this June will offer a multitude of benefits for non-residential students. It will present a unique opportunity for children to explore major landmarks and cultural spots, fostering an early appreciation for both history and nature. In June, students will embark on a journey brimming with activities that promise to be as educational as they are entertaining. For Year 6 primary school students, these experiences contribute significantly to their personal development and understanding of the world around them.
One of the highlights of this week is the visit to Topsy Turvy World, a place where creativity knows no bounds. In this fun-filled play environment, students have the chance to engage in activities that not only stimulate their imaginations but also encourage physical exercise. The various play zones and interactive features challenge children to think creatively and solve problems in a light-hearted setting. Through role play and collaborative games, students build social skills, resilience, and confidence, which are vital components as they develop into well-rounded individuals.
Another cornerstone of this exciting week is the trip to Hampton Court Palace. This historical site, once home to King Henry VIII, offers students an immersive experience into the rich tapestry of British history. Wandering through the grand halls and intricate gardens stimulates curiosity and offers a hands-on understanding of life in the Tudor era. Such an experience fosters a love for history, encouraging students to connect historical events with the wider world, enhancing their comprehension and critical thinking skills. Through guided tours and interactive exhibits, children learn to ask questions and develop a deeper appreciation for their cultural heritage.
Kew Gardens is another destination that promises both education and entertainment. Exploring this expansive botanical garden allows students to learn about diverse plant species and ecosystems from around the globe. It is an excellent way to introduce topics like biodiversity and environmental conservation in a real-world context. As they traverse the treetop walkway and visit the various ecological zones, children build observational skills and gain insight into the importance of protecting our natural world. This visit may inspire future interests in science and environmental stewardship, subjects crucial for the sustainability of our planet.
A day at ZSL London Zoo is sure to captivate students with its fascinating animal exhibits and conservation initiatives. Interactions with creatures ranging from majestic big cats to playful penguins offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural kingdom up close. Through engaging talks and activities, students learn about different species and their habitats, fostering empathy and responsibility for wildlife. Such experiences also highlight the importance of zoological research and conservation efforts, potentially sparking interest in biology or ecology as future areas of study.
Finally, the Diana Memorial Playground offers a space for children to conclude their adventurous week with imaginative play. Inspired by Peter Pan, this playground encourages creativity, teamwork, and adventure. Children are free to climb the pirate ship, traverse rope bridges, or enjoy a quiet moment in the sensory garden. Play is essential for children's development, supporting emotional well-being and social skills, while also providing a space for sheer enjoyment and relaxation after a week of non-stop discovery.
For residential students and non-residential students, the benefits of participating in the "London is Fun" week and off-site residential holidays are not limited to the experiences themselves. By sharing these adventures with classmates, they develop important life skills such as independence, cooperation, and communication. The chance to break away from the regular school environment to explore a bustling city like London is an empowering experience, often fostering a greater sense of community and friendship within the group. These shared memories and the bonds they form enhance the children's confidence and maturity, preparing them for their transition to secondary school.
WCU believes the "London is Fun" week and residential holidays are a remarkable opportunity for Year 6 students to explore, learn, and grow. From historical exploration to scientific discovery and imaginative play, each activity is designed to enrich students' experiences, preparing them for the future with a diverse set of skills and a greater understanding of the world
The experiences we shared last week and those we have planned for June and the immediate future were not just a wonderful use of the holiday and school time, but they also set the stage for what June represents—an opportunity for exploration, discovery, and continued growth for the students which is key to what we believe in. Embracing these educational adventures helps create well-rounded individuals who are equipped with both knowledge and the joy of learning.
We hope you all had a super break, we certainly did! We spent our holidays together with many of you exploring Kew, ZSL, and our local spaces, including the canal with our friends in the Floating Classroom. And now that we are back, we have rapidly reached May, which is a truly enchanting month, marking the heart of spring and the promise of summer around the corner. In London, May brings warmth and longer days, which beckon everyone outdoors to enjoy the vibrant city life just as we did this holiday. It’s a month filled with fun activities, exciting celebrations, and opportunities for exploration, making it a special time for both locals and visitors, so we hope you take the opportunity to get involved with whichever May projects your school takes on. We are sharing the results of our film making competition shortly but as a sneak-preview of some of these lovely venues and our students’ work, we are sharing submissions this month.
As the weather becomes warmer and milder May Day approaches, celebrated on the 1st of May, is a traditional festival with deep roots in history. In England, it's a day marked by joy and community spirit, which we believe in at WCU. One of the day’s most iconic traditions is maypole dancing, where people dance around a tall pole, weaving colourful ribbons into intricate patterns. The celebration heralds the start of summer and brings communities together, often with fairs, music, and dances that light up villages and towns. We aren’t having maypoles, but we are working hard on our second community space and have just taken a donation of two really, old rose bushes which will be a great way to mark May Day with our volunteers from Veolia and Finastra.
The late May bank holiday is a special time for families and friends to gather and enjoy the long weekend so make sure you encourage your adults to plan something nice. Did you know that It was originally established to give the working population a little break before summer? Nowadays, it is often spent outdoors, with garden barbecues, trips to the countryside, or simply soaking up the sunshine in a local park. Its history as a public holiday dates back to 1978, solidifying its place in British culture as a day for relaxation and fun, so you can see why our green spaces are the perfect way to mark and celebrate May.
May is a bustling time in schools, as they often host special events and assemblies to mark the season. May Day might be celebrated with classroom activities related to history and culture, or even small maypole dances. Around the Spring Bank Holiday, schools might organise sports days, fairs, or encourage participation in community events. These activities provide a wonderful opportunity for us to learn outside the classroom and engage with our peers which we love at WCU. May in London is a month full of wonder, providing a host of opportunities for learning and enjoyment. As the days get warmer, students are encouraged to step outside, make the most of the exciting activities available, and embrace the city's rich history and cultural offerings. It’s a time to explore, discover, and dream about the future, all while basking in the magic that May brings.
As the summer term gets closer, many of you are gearing up to take your SATs this May. These tests are a chance to show just how much you've learned in school. Being prepared can make you feel more confident and help you do your best. Here’s a friendly guide packed with tips and advice to help you get ready for your SATs. Remember, you've got this!
It’s important to understand what SATs are. In the UK, these tests are for subjects like Maths, English Reading, and Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling (GPS). Knowing what the SATs include will help you know exactly what to study. It’s a bit like knowing the rules when playing a game; it helps you prepare better!
You can improve your results and confidence when you are preparing by reading lots of different stories and books. Practise by summarising them, finding key themes, and drawing conclusions. It’s like being a detective while reading!
As brushing up on grammar rules is important, you could try writing sentences with proper punctuation. You can even make spelling practice fun with games like crosswords and word searches then get an adult to check them for you.
Remember, no problem is too big; break big problems into smaller, simple steps. Practice mental maths and learn fun math tricks to solve problems faster. It’s a bit like solving puzzles! You could even have family challenges or quizzes when you are practicing this. It’s okay to make mistakes—they’re part of learning. Celebrate your achievements and progress, no matter how tiny they might seem because every step forward is brilliant!
Remember, feeling a bit worried is normal, but there are ways to manage it. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretches can help calm your mind. Think of it as a mini-vacation for your brain. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, have a chat with your teachers, friends, or family members. They’re there to help you and cheer you on. Studying with friends, if you can arrange this, can make learning more exciting and help clear up any confusion you have. You can help each other out and share knowledge—teamwork makes the dream work! Share your study plans with your family. They can help keep you on track and offer encouragement when you need it most
Your health is super important, especially when you’re preparing for tests. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night, as it helps your brain rest and recharge. Picture your brain as a phone that needs a proper charge to work at its best. Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and lots of water keeps your energy up. Just like a car needs the right fuel to run, your body needs healthy food. Don’t forget to take breaks and get out and about because physical activity is a fantastic way to relieve stress and improve concentration. Even a short walk or a game of tag can make a big difference.
The day before your SATs, just do a light review. Don’t overload your brain with too much new information; it needs a quiet night before the big day! Make sure you have everything you need ready for the exam, like your pens, pencils, and any other necessary items. Having people to rely on can make all the difference and your adults will help you prep and organise for the big day.
Getting ready for your SATs might feel a bit overwhelming at first, but with the right approach and a positive mind-set, you can handle them with confidence. Remember, these exams are just one part of your learning journey, and doing your best is what truly matters. Good luck, and be proud of all the hard work you’ve done! You’re amazing!
On the day of the exam, take deep breaths, read each question carefully, and pace yourself throughout the test. You’ve got all the tools and skills to do well!
STEM and Careers Week is an important fixture in many schools during May, designed to ignite interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Schools may host workshops, invite guest speakers, or organise field trips that highlight the relevance of STEM in everyday life. At home, students can try fun activities like building simple machines or exploring coding basics, nurturing skills that are essential for future careers. We are working with a great charity that will be bringing professionals to your schools thanks to Young Westminster Foundation Funding this May, so we can’t wait to hear what you learn!
Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, is celebrated on the 8th of May, marking the end of World War II in Europe, and is another May event that you might hear mentioned at school or by adults. It is a day of remembrance and gratitude, commemorating the bravery and sacrifices of those who lived through the war years. In London, various events might be held to honour the day, including parades, services, and moments of silence, most of which you can see and attend for free. It's both a reflective and celebratory day, highlighting peace and unity.
Of course, May is the perfect time to explore London’s beautiful parks and gardens. Hyde Park offers a green oasis in the heart of the city, where families can enjoy picnics or strolls. On select days, Kew Gardens, renowned for its stunning variety of plants and flowers, opens its gates free of charge and we have partner schools visiting there throughout May this year, providing a chance to explore nature’s wonders. These green spaces are often dotted with blossoms, adding to the magical feel of May.
In May, London comes alive with outdoor events that are often free and open to all. Street performances and parades fill the city with music and the arts, creating a lively atmosphere. Festivals celebrating everything from food to culture can be found across different boroughs, offering a taste of London's diverse community. It’s a great time to wander through the streets and find unexpected joys.
For those who prefer indoor pursuits, London is home to incredible museums, many of which offer free entry. The British Museum, with its vast collection spanning centuries and cultures, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Similarly, the Natural History Museum, where we visited the NHM Wildlife Photographer of the Year, offers exciting exhibits on dinosaurs and the wonders of the natural world, sparking the curiosity of young minds. A visit to these places is both educational and inspiring.
May presents an excellent opportunity for WCU explorers to learn and grow. The variety of activities available in London encourages us to delve into our interests and consider what careers we might enjoy in the future. Encouraging our curiosity and exploration is key to inspiring us to create the next generation of thinkers, doers, and innovators.