Science Explorers

Enrichment sessions this week have included the Science Explorer Dome, which taught pupils about planets, stars and the wonders of the universe. Students have also discussed the importance of influential figures such as Tim Peake in space research, whilst using their logical knowledge to design and engineer parachute space crafts. It was an intriguing combination of intellectual and practical skills, with pupils performing incredibly well in the class.

Sport

As well as intellectually stimulating activities, students have been treated to a variety of entertaining sports, including croquet, dodgeball and benchball. Alongside Rounders and early morning gym sessions, physical activity has certainly helped compensate for the overwhelming and endless supply of sweet treats and delicious food!

Academic Discovery

In the Academic Discovery Arts programme this week, students investigated the question: ‘In what ways have travel and exploration shaped the way we live?’ From researching the Age of Exploration to the Viking navigators, the class provided an extensive insight into the impact of travel and exploration on modern life.

The Academic Discovery STEM class, on the other hand, focused more on technology, discussing how the advancements made in engineering have affected the course of human history. This was particularly enthralling to some students, who understand we live in a severely technology-dependent society today and were interested to see the developments that caused this.

Pamper Party

With so many activities and lessons happening, a pamper party was hosted to give students a well-deserved evening to relax. With nail varnish, hair styling, hot chocolate and cookies, the party was a roaring success for staff and students alike. It was a great excuse for everyone to get together, chat with friends and revel in delicious treats and a pamper session.

Marshmallow and Spaghetti Challenge

The marshmallow and spaghetti challenge was another exciting opportunity for students to work together in a team, though cleaning up the aftermath showed that teamwork can only go so far!

Despite cleaning being a challenge, the activity itself was enjoyed and many students created impressively tall structures that could support the weight of the egg. The variety of designs revealed the extensive and unique imagination of the teams and most of the creations were structurally rigid enough to bear weight, showing the engineering abilities of the group.

Kidzania

A trip to Kidzania later in the week enabled students to experience the working world. One child explained Kidzania as a “kids world where you can experience things like ‘what it would be like to have the stress of having a husband!'”.

Many were especially interested in the ability to work and earn ‘Kidzo’s’ which they could then exchange for services, university education and life essentials. The experience gave students the chance to see what is in store in the adult world, and many were enthralled with the excursion.

Coming Up

For Graduation, the juniors have been preparing with dances and performances, whilst the finishing touches have been made to some outstanding presentations. The knowledge the children have acquired in addition to the enthusiasm and interest they’ve shown in learning new topics has been exceptional. We most certainly have a number of budding entrepreneurs in our midst!

To end the week we have a drone being controlled around the campus and capturing the children in action. With some students sadly leaving us on Sunday, many new arrivals will certainly enjoy the weeks ahead, and those staying will be welcomed into their third week at SMA.