Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Peafield Lane Academy ahead of the curve on innovative learning spaces
Pupils are taking the helm to help fellow children read and research their projects with the use of special artefacts
Children at Peafield Lane Academy are taking their learning to another level with the introduction of new learning spaces throughout school.
One such space is the school library, now with a specially chosen team of pupils called the Library and Learning Space Team. Not only do these children help others to use the library, but they also look after an interesting array of artefacts sitting amongst the bookshelves, all of which are chosen to prompt further reading or research by pupils.
Gary Walker, Head Teacher at Peafield Lane Academy said the objects are there to encourage independent learning by pupils throughout the school. “We have a range of objects which can help pupils to start a conversation, or pursue further research. There are a lot to choose from, like objects relating to Eygypt, or space or history for example.
“But there is one particular object that has been catching the attention of parents who have been touring the school looking to place their child in nursery or foundation. Almost without fail when we show them the area they spot the wooden rattle, the ones so often used at football matches years ago. Almost everyone has a memory of owning one or seeing one as a child. Immediately it prompts memories and stories of their own experiences using them. It’s the prompting of conversations we were looking for, we just didn’t realise it would work for adults too!”
“But there is one particular object that has been catching the attention of parents who have been touring the school.. the wooden rattle, the ones so often used at football matches years ago.”
Now children are able to seek help from the Library and Learning Space Team, or in the case of the rattle, speak to parents and grandparents to learn more!
Teacher Deborah Hunton (KS2 Teacher) said that the innovative project has increased friendships between yeargroups as well as an increase in the use of the learning spaces. “The Library and Learning Space Team help their peers and younger children in the school to use the Library area to read and research. They also give feedback to school staff on how the area is being used.” Deborah says the children who make up the team have been chosen carefully. “The pupils in the Team are responsible, patient and enthusiastic. They enjoy reading, and have a desire to help others and to develop the school learning space. They are making the area a great success. ”
Esme Stevens age 9 said she loves her new role. “I think I have been chosen to be on the team because I am responsible enough, I think, and I like books too!” Layla Kells age 9 agrees that it is a responsible job. “I am looking forward to working with younger children, helping them to read and understand all of the books and objects.”
Elizabeth Osite age 9 said she thinks it will help everyone in school. “I want to help others to read more, to understand what they are reading, so they learn more. It is a nice peaceful area too.”
Jasmine Reast age 9 said that they all had to apply for the job by writing letters, telling teachers about their interests and skills, just like a real job application. “I am looking forward to organising the library and keeping the books tidy.” Lucy Wakeling age 9 said it is helping to make new friendships in the school. “I think its really nice that you get to work with children from other year groups. I hope I can help them to read and love books, and maybe not use electronics so much!”
Grace Corrigan age 9 thinks everyone should support public libraries too. “I like libraries and go to the library in Mansfield a lot. I want other people to learn how to use libraries and see how much there is to do in them.”