A structured lunchtime initiative at Stephenson Way is proving to be a great success with pupils.
While still able to enjoy free play on the yard or field, since the summer term children have also been offered the chance to attend one of several staffed “clubs” which offer various fun activities.
Art Club offers the children the chance to enjoy a creative session where they can be productive with a selection of art materials.
The club operates as an incentive scheme, whereby children earn Art Passes through good, helpful behaviour and exceptional classroom work. With a little helping hand from Miss Strong, so far the children have crafted tissue paper flowers, bookmarks and bracelets amongst many other things.
ICT club offers the children a chance to work on the computers. Like the Art club, the children must earn their ICT passes which means that the club’s impact stretches further than just the lunchtime period.
Many children enjoy simply playing games whilst some like to create photomontages or experiment with software they have used in class.
The football club makes use of the enclosed football area on the yard and allows children from all year groups to play together in mixed teams in a winner-stays-on format.
The presence of a staff member to act as referee means the games are contested fairly whilst the format maximises each child’s playing time. Since beginning in the summer term, the club has developed a friendly yet competitive atmosphere.
The enclosed playing area also means that the rest of the children playing outside enjoy more space and can play without fear of getting hit by a stray ball.
The guidance and support provided by the staff help the children make the most out of their free time and the access to ICT and art equipment means that children now have the option to access education throughout the whole school day.