Key Stage Friday Assembly - September 2026

A Wonderful Morning of Learning and Reflection

It was a lovely start to the day on Friday as Miss Manning-Swallow warmly welcomed our Early Years and Key Stage 1 pupils into the hall for their assembly. She was delighted to enlist William’s help as they looked around the hall together, checking which classes were sitting quietly and patiently waiting for everyone to arrive.

It was wonderful to see how respectfully the pupils conducted themselves as they settled into the assembly. Miss Manning-Swallow began by sharing the delightful story The Grand Hotel of Feelings. The children were captivated as they discovered that some feelings are big and some are small, some are fun and some are tricky, but that every feeling has a place. At The Grand Hotel of Feelings, there is always room for everyone!

The story provided a wonderful opportunity for the pupils to think about the many different emotions we experience and the importance of recognising and respecting how others may be feeling. They explored how we can show kindness and understanding to those around us, while also learning how to look after ourselves when we experience difficult or overwhelming emotions.

To bring the assembly to a peaceful close, the pupils were invited to close their eyes and imagine holding a warm cup of hot chocolate. They took a quiet moment to enjoy its comforting warmth and imagined the delicious aroma rising from their cup. It was a wonderfully calming and mindful way to begin their day.

Introducing the Oak Tree Challenge Awards

Meanwhile, Mrs Bull was delighted to welcome our Key Stage 2 pupils into the studio. The pupils once again demonstrated excellent manners, coming together quietly and settling ready to listen.

Mrs Bull introduced the pupils to the Oak Tree Challenge Awards – Bronze, Silver and Gold, explaining which year groups each Challenge is aimed at and outlining the requirements for achieving each award. The pupils listened with great interest and asked some thoughtful and well-informed questions, demonstrating their enthusiasm and curiosity.

Mrs Bull was delighted to answer their questions and reassured the pupils that they are always welcome to speak to her if they have anything further they would like to clarify or discuss.

As the assembly came to a close, Mrs Bull asked the pupils how many would be interested in taking part in the Oak Tree Challenge Awards. She was delighted to see such an impressive show of hands, with many pupils eager to take on the challenge and work towards achieving their Bronze, Silver or Gold award.

It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm, curiosity and positive engagement from our pupils across both assemblies — a fantastic way to begin the day!