Outings & Activities
Visits to places of interest are a fundamental aspect of our multi-sensory and cross-curricular approach to education.
These trips stimulate interest and help the children discover a range of exciting opportunities and experiences. It is also a chance for students to put into practice the wide range of skills taught at school.
Here are reports on some recent events.
Trip to see 'Warhorse'
Students recently went to see the film adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s book Warhorse as part of their English Literature course with KS4 English teacher, Mrs Saunders.
This term all KS4 pupils have been studying War Poetry from the First World War . We have read a selection of poems by Wilfred Owen and Jessie Pope. To help the pupils to understand the context of World War 1 we have watched ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ and visited the cinema at Bluewater to watch ‘War Horse’ by Steven Spielberg.
‘We went to go and see War Horse at Bluewater. I thought it was amazing, tearful and a wonderful film. It had lots of good action and I think it is one of the best films Steven Spielberg has made.’ James Tweddell Year 10
‘We went to see ‘War Horse’ at Bluewater. We watched one of the first showings of the film. The film was good, I would watch it again! The film, directed by Steven Spielberg, is about the life of a horse and his human friend set in WW1. The film is quite sad, but has a happy ending.’ Ben Clift Year 10
Eating Out
As part of the ongoing life skills/social communication programme, and despite the bad weather and threat of snow, Dover class braved the elements to visit our local cafe for lunch.
Students were required to read the menu, order and pay for their own food. As always we were complimented on our good behaviour and free lollipops were gratefully received.
Helping out at Jumpers
Over the Christmas break three Year 11 pupils in Deal class and their teacher assisted staff at Jumpers Rebound Centre with their annual makeover. Tasks included: washing down walls and equipment, preparing paintwork and painting, vacuuming and cleaning the pit area. One student received an excellent reference in support of his application to Mid Kent College for the interior decorating course he will start in September.
Staff at the centre commented on the work-related skills the students demonstrated during their time there and, in particular, their excellent work ethic and good inter-personal skills. Well done!
The Trip to the Christmas Market in Bruges was a great success!
Students relished their visit to the beautiful Christmas market in the historic city of Bruges, allowing them to experience a different culture, take part in social activities, and stock up on presents for their friends and families.
Students in KS3 enjoyed a History Project at the Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham. - Making History come alive!
11th November 2011 - Remembrance Day
Despite the weather, the whole school took part in the annual Remembrance Day service at Victoria Gardens on 11th November.
Attended by the Mayor and service personnel, this is an important event, when our students take part in this national commemoration. Not only are they able to share the moment with the wider community, but they also have the opportunity to talk with veterans, who equally relish the children's interest.
The visit provided much food for thought for childen and staff alike and, once again, our pupils' exemplary behaviour drew many positive comments.
Visit to Turner Contemporary
The Sixth Form attended a workshop at the Turner Contemporary as part of their National Art, Media and Design course. The visit stimulated great interest and numerous questions, and all our students learned new skills which they can apply to their course.
Animation Now!
At the University of Creative Arts (UCA), the students produced a short animation as part of their course. This involved learning about and deciding on the techniques they could use, such as staged drawings or cut outs. This detailed work was enthusiastically enjoyed by all - with one student declaring that this was wha he wanted to do all his life!
Visit to Bodiam Castle
As part of Life Skills and the ASDAN course, students visited Bodiam Castle - a fascinating day with the added bonus of this fabulous setting!
