Six Year 9 students from across XP and XP East collaborated with six Year 9 students from King Alfred School in London today, working together to co-construct a Learning Expedition titled: ‘Something Better Change’.
Their work centred around the compelling Guiding Question:
‘What sort of education would we design for our own children?’
The day began with a Crew Circle, engaging in relationship building and developing an understanding of the purpose of Crew. Students were then encouraged to pair up and explore the provision on offer at King Alfred through ambassador tours.
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Upon return, we reflected on the similarities and differences between XP and King Alfred School. We noticed, wondered and questioned some of the design choices which were supported by a contextual session with Robert Lobotto, Head at King Alfred.
To develop ideas further, students were challenged to explore the fundamental question: What is the purpose of school? A central goal was for them to consider deeply the nature of education itself. At this time they reflected on their own views of what a ‘perfect’ school would look like, which will later be supported using the extracts of Ken and Kate Robinson’s book about the future shape of learning, ‘Imagine If.. creating a future for us all’.
The visit concluded with a check out where students reflected on the following three questions:
What was the most interesting thing you’ve learnt today?
Was there anything you have found difficult to understand?
What would you like to explore further?
Next week, we welcome students from King Alfred to XP where we will continue this work further, using the responses as inspiration.
We are really looking forward to the development of this Expedition – the future is bright!
Students will need to be at XP East for 16.45, students can bring spending money for refreshments during the game. Students will need to come dressed appropriately for an evening event that will be inside.
Date: 15/06/26
Time Leaving school: 16.45
Time returning from event: approximately 22.00 (students will contact parents on the way home)
Any questions please email cogrady@xpschool.org or abowser@xpschool.org
Crew had a busy week last week, especially to say it was bank holiday on the Monday.
On Wednesday we completed Wise Wednesday and was looking at people who are ‘upstanders’ and ‘bystanders’ and the impacts of using certain phrases. Students were really mature in the conversations we had and showed great compassion to each other.
Then on Thursday night crew had a practise DofE sleep over where they made tea and got ready for their walk the next day. Crew showed some great resilience – I’m really excited for the real one!
Last week, during Wise Wednesdsy, we explored the meaning of the word ‘bullying’, what it truly involves, and the importance of being an ‘upstander’ instead of a ‘bystander’.
We discussed the definition of bullying and recognised that it is more than just disagreements or one-off unkind words between friends. We also considered how using the term too often can reduce people’s understanding of its seriousness.
Crew members talked about the impact of being a bystander and reflected on some of the reasons why people may choose not to step in.
To finish the session, we worked together to brainstorm some ideas about how we can be upstanders in our community!
Active Fusion’s FREE Sports Leadership Camp is coming to Carr Lodge Academy, Balby and bookings are now live!
Are you passionate about sport and ready to take the next step towards a future in coaching or physical education? This is your chance to learn, lead and grow.
Tuesday 26th May to Friday 29th May 9am to 3pm daily Carr Lodge Academy, Balby Ages 12 to 16
Over the course of the programme, young people will: • Work towards a Level 2 Sports Leaders Qualification • Learn from experienced coaches in a supportive environment • Develop coaching skills, session planning and leadership techniques • Build confidence and gain skills for future careers in sport, teaching or fitness
This is a great opportunity for young people who want to develop leadership skills and explore a future in sport