Luton school finds alternative activities to give children new opportunities to learn

A school in Luton has shared some of the ways it has been giving children different opportunities to learn, while following government guidelines.

Year 6 pupils at Southfield Primary School recently dressed up as Victorians as part of their topic 'Victorious Victorians'.

Usually the children would visit a museum to find out more but this year they have immersed themselves in the life of Victorians by dressing up and being Victorian school children for the day.

Headteacher Sarah Pollard said: "We've had a brilliant start to the new term and children are so pleased to be back.

"The Victorian Day was a success, they are already used to sitting in rows because that's how our classes are now organised but they found the work very different using slate and working with very stern teachers!

"To support mental health and wellbeing we've got lots of music going on with recorders and guitars.

"Children in Year 3 have all started to learn the recorder and in Year 6 they are all learning to play the guitar.

"We believe it is important that children learn an instrument in school as it encourages creativity, maintains children's focus and concentration, fosters teamwork and supports children's mental health and wellbeing - all areas that children need to develop following months of lockdown.

"Children love learning to play instruments with one child saying: 'I'm going to be the next Ed Sheeran'."