Selwood Academy has reflected on a very busy year for students throughout the school, taking part in community projects.
Jane Larman from Selwood Academy said, “Almost every pupil in the school has taken part in a community project and thoroughly enjoyed themselves in the process.
“In the autumn term, every Year 7 tutor group was set the challenge of improving the environment using knowledge gained in science, religion & philosophy and geography. The projects ranged from litter picks, to assemblies for local first schools, in which they taught younger children the importance of keeping Frome clean and looking after local wildlife.
“In the spring term, Year 8 tutor groups took part in an exciting variety of drama/PSHE projects linked to disability and discrimination. One class visited Active and In Touch, a charity which supports people in Frome who feel lonely or isolated. They shared and compared childhood memories, then set about dramatizing the real-life stories of its members. This was very well received by all involved.
“Another class created a sensory theatre experience for the pupils at Critchill using words, music and props to tell stories using the five senses. This was not only a delightful experience for Critchill, but was also an extremely rewarding experience for the Selwood pupils who were involved.
“Another class worked with Howard Vause, a local film director, to create a short film to promote Routes Café and the important work it does for young people in Frome. You can view this on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPBGOb1hTX0&safe=true
“Selwood pupils stayed busy in the summer term as well, but this time focused on supporting the Frome Town Council. After researching current issues in the local council meetings, each Year 6 tutor group decided upon a certain aspect of the local community they would like to support.
“All of the projects involved investigating one aspect of Frome using interviews, questionnaires and data analysis. One class explored the issue of graffiti, another looked at recycling in Frome and another found out about growing your own veg and created an organic school allotment!
“Frome Town Council also asked another class to investigate the issue of dog poo in Frome, due to many recent discussions taking place in council meetings. This class set about interviewing members of the public, dog owners and shopkeepers and created a film which the town council said they would like to use to promote responsible dog ownership in a future council meeting.
“This term our Year 5 pupils ended the school year with visits to Frome Community Hospital and Pepperbox Nursery to entertain with songs, poetry and artwork. A lovely way to end a very eventful and productive year. Well done to all of the pupils involved, you have begun to make a real difference in your community!”
