One of the most exciting parts of my job as a 'Head of House' is being able to run a 30 minute assembly each fortnight with 1/4 of the school (ages 12-18) that is pretty much 'anything (enriching) goes'. Finding activities and games that engage the old (laid-back/cool) and young (hyperactive!!) is a challenge, but an absolutely welcome one. We've had 'Inter-Family Improv Wars', 'Get to know you BINGO', Spelling Bee Obstacle Course... you name it!
This week's assembly was my most ambitious idea to date. I'd been thinking of organising a trip for the housemembers to go and see some live music locally, but I was running into difficulties in finding times/venues etc. So then I thought: 'Why not have a band come in to school?'
I called up some old friends and they were more than happy to play some songs to an enthusiastic crowd of students! What followed was probably my most enjoyable experience as a teacher. My pupils (and staff) were completely awe-struck as two really talented guys played for them. We had a bit of everything: sparklers, singing from the balcony and a crowd-surfing inflatable shark!
For some of the younger students it was the first time they'd seen a real 'band', though it was the older ones who were asking for Autographs!
I think that experiences like this are vital for pupils. I'd suggest that some of my strongest memories from school are when I was blown away by a visiting speaker or group. If I was in a band (and didn't take myself too seriously), I'd want to play to schools every day!
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