Pupils’ Persective

PUPILS’ PERSPECTIVE

We listened to two members of the Student Council about an unprecedented year at The Perse.

Lockdown Learning

ASH GOEL (YEAR 8)

DURING THE PANDEMIC The Perse has adapted effi ciently to ensure learning is fun and interactive for pupils. In April 2020 I moved to remote learning and it was a new experience for everyone, bringing new challenges each day. Fast forward one year and online learning changed immensely; virtual classes became so interactive that I felt like I was still in lessons at school. Teachers organised live conferences for almost every lesson in the day. The use of ‘breakout rooms’ meant that I could work in small groups to collaboratively complete tasks, a style of learning which I enjoy. Whilst remote learning has been the best I could have hoped for in these strange times, it has certainly made me feel grateful to be back in school with my friends and fellow classmates.

Beyond the Classroom

HEATHER MAGOWAN (UPPER SIXTH STUDENT COUNCIL LEAD)

I’VE FOUND THE continuation of extra-curricular activities important during 2020–21; the School seemed to pick up where it had left off where it could, enabling students to make the most of being together again after a long time apart. I have greatly valued the friendships and memories made in school sports teams, drama productions, the Student Council, and other clubs. Even in this slightly strange year, these are the things I’ll remember The Perse for.

The school year started with a virtual societies fair, where students in every club and society created videos to recruit new members. New societies also emerged such as the Ecological Society and the British Sign Language Society, refl ecting students’ enthusiasm to get involved in life beyond the classroom following lockdown. Another notably active aspect of the School has been the house system, with house events including fun runs and football which have been enjoyed by all participating.

Lunchtimes have been diffi cult this year, with nearly 1,500 students and staff to feed. The timetable has been changed to 20-minute periods to stagger lunchtimes and we’re fortunate to still be provided with hot meals every day.

Sport has been a challenge to continue safely but it’s been great to be back on the sports pitches and the sports department have provided plenty of extra opportunities to develop skills beyond games lessons including virtual netball workouts and outdoor challenges.

The Perse’s drama life has been challenged by social distancing with the closure of schools announced during the fi nal rehearsal for the Sixth Form’s Education Education Education production. Since then drama productions have been adapted for screens, and even recorded over Zoom. Whilst diff erent, it’s been great for the School to continue to provide the theatrical experiences. The Student Council have embraced ‘Covid-19 creativity’, creating videos to tackle issues raised by pupils. We’ve taken this year as an opportunity to look at improving other aspects of the School, such as the greater promotion of mental health and Blue Monday.