Junior School Symposium

The Junior School celebrated our annual Symposium week with the theme of ‘Our Wonderful World’. Building on the successes of previous symposium events, through varied activities, workshops and events, our Symposium seeks to extend, challenge and enrich our pupils’ learning in a memorable way. This is a distinctive and ambitious event that celebrates the breadth and depth of learning and allows for curiosity, challenge and ultimately a joy of learning to really shine through. 

As part of the theme ‘Our Wonderful World’, children and colleagues were encouraged to be global in their outlook and to develop their understanding of others and themselves in a community that extends well beyond the school gate.  Pupils in the Lower Juniors took part in a workshop, ‘Around the World’, which consisted of exploration through poetry, journeys and food. Meanwhile, our Upper Juniors focused on the Seven Wonders of the World, exploring each of these through virtual reality. 

Our families across all year groups shared in their children’s learning and were all invited to be involved in the creative pursuits alongside their children. This distinctive learning becomes memorable for all and will support their learning well into the future. 

Last year's Junior School Symposium theme was Sustainability. 

Pupils in our EYFS explored the idea of ‘farm-to-fork’ and planted seedlings to actively appreciate how fun it can be to grow seasonal food and thereby reduce food miles and packaging. 

Pupils in KS1 looked at the effects of plastics and marine litter on ocean life. They created ‘cork fish’ using colourful recycled scales to bring an awareness of the problem, as well as to understand the role we can all play in supporting a thriving ocean ecosystem. 

Pupils in our KS2 classes explored the concept of upcycling, and understanding green issues in the home, at school and in a global context. The award-winning 'Earthship' building made a strong impression and inspired our pupils with what could be possible in terms of renewable energy and recycled materials. 

This coming together of learning is a celebration of all that we offer at Royal Russell, and with such an important theme, we have every confidence that it made a hugely positive impact on our community. The celebration and enjoyment of learning that has taken place over the week was remarkable, and additionally the important lessons learned in caring for our planet have been very impressive.