The significance of our school assemblies

At Gateway, our assembly schedule plays a huge part in supporting the children's learning and in particular, our Learning for Life curriculum. It is within these that we are able to reinforce our school ethos, reflect on success (both individual and collective), inspire the children with stories from the world around us and build the school community.

During the current academic year, we have held assemblies covering a huge variety of topics. These have included: National Storytelling Week, World Oceans Day, British Science Week, Harvest Festival, Remembrance Day and Christmas Literature. Alongside our weekly My Best Assemblies and the regular Learning for Life topics, the children are exposed to a huge variety of subjects in assemblies that are designed to inspire. Just this week, Mrs Bradley talked to the school on Armed Forces Day about the role they play in our lives. These assemblies help to affirm the school's identity and aspirations.

Another role the school assemblies play is to highlight the important work of our chosen charities. The children have been fascinated by assemblies from Shelterbox and Rosie's Rainbow, whilst also supporting national events such as Sports Relief and Children in Need. The donations from our Harvest Festival assembly are given to a local care home, as well as the Chiltern Foodbank.

We always encourage the children to take an active part in the planning and delivery of assemblies - the ability to stand in front of an audience and present is a life skill. Whilst they don't all find this easy, an assembly can develop the value of each individual pupil, including their individual thoughts and abilities.

A highlight of the school year is the final assembly of the term. It is here that the children collectively celebrate whole school achievements, house successes and reflect on the year as a whole. We are currently in the process of planning this and I'm sure that it will provide a fitting end to what has been another fabulous school year at Gateway.

Have a great weekend.

Mr Grosse, Deputy Headteacher