National Children's Day
The school gathered in the hall, where Mr Wilson was delighted to inform everyone that it was “National Children’s Day”. He asked the pupils what they thought was particularly enjoyable about being a child. Among the responses shared were:
- “I like spending time with my teachers, friends and family.”
- “Having fun at soft play.”
- “Having more energy than adults.”
- “Loving my parents.”
- “Eating chocolate” — which Mr Wilson confirmed was a pleasure that never really went away and definitely continued into adulthood.
Mr Wilson then went on to explain that, as children, the pupils have rights set out in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Among the 57 rights included are the rights to play, to be heard and to belong.
The pupils were given a moment to discuss what they enjoyed playing with and eagerly shared their ideas, including football, teddy bears, Top Trumps and PS5 games. When Mr Wilson asked whether they had ever had a good idea at home that adults had not listened to, he explained that, as children make up one fifth of the population, it was important that schools — and even Parliament — provide opportunities for children to be heard, as they will become the adults of tomorrow.
Mr Wilson explained that the right to belong has many parts, including being able to speak your own language, believe in and follow your faith, and be the person you want to be. He reminded the pupils that everyone has the right to fit in and feel that they belong. He also spoke about how recognising positive qualities in others can help create a sense of belonging. The pupils were asked to turn to those around them and share something positive about one another, helping to build strong bonds and a real sense of community, which the pupils thoroughly enjoyed.
Mr Wilson brought the assembly to a close by wishing everyone a wonderful day. He hoped the pupils had developed a strong sense of belonging, understood the importance of being heard, and would greatly enjoy their playtimes.
