Morpeth School uses flowerpot to build new pupils’ team spirit
Getting to grips with secondary education is in the balance for new Morpeth School pupils in Bethnal Green. Picture: Morpeth School - Credit: Morpeth
The new first-year pupils at Bethnal Green’s Morpeth School marked their first week at secondary education by playground team-building balancing a ball on a flower pot.
They spent an afternoon tackling a challenges to develop problem-solving and working together.
“Secondary school is a big step up from primary,” headteacher Jemima Reilly said. “They’re expected to think more independently which needs problem-solving skills and an ability to plan and communicate.”
The youngsters had to balance a basketball on the flowerpot with 12 tight ropes attached, shifting it from spot to spot without dropping it if just one pupil slackens their rope.
They also had to manoeuvre a ball around a tabletop maze, avoiding strategically placed holes, and crawl into a canvass tube without falling over, all organised by a company specialising in educational activities, Wise Up Team Building.
“These activities help equip them with classroom skills,” the head-teacher added. “They also get to know other pupils they’ve just met.”
The school helps develop skills outside the classroom with a programme of participation, leadership and community action.
