The start of term marked the launch of our inaugural Curiosity Week. Year 7 students transformed into museum curator, creating captivating exhibits about life at SWPS while exploring how people lived between 1725 and 2025. Their hard work is now proudly displayed in the Atrium for all to see.
The week began with a deep dive into the roles of historians, archivists, and museum professionals, learning how the past is interpreted and presented. In Maths, students explored old weights, measures, and money, comparing the cost of living then and now using a weekly shopping list as a fascinating case study. In Geography, students investigated the British Empire, examining how countries’ names and land masses have changed over time.
The students also received exclusive access to Chertsey Museum, where they reviewed exhibits and learned about digital techniques used to convey historical information. The museum’s curator, Emily Dove, delivered an engaging presentation about museum operations, hosted in the school library.
The week was enriched by collaboration across year groups and subjects. Year 12 students led a drama session, bringing stories from the school’s historical ‘The Rambler’ magazine to life through skits. In Music, students explored ‘Singing Through the Ages,’ preparing and performing songs from each of SWPS’s three centuries.
In Science, students examined key discoveries and breakthroughs over 300 years, debating which had the greatest impact on SWPS today. Sports sessions featured a carousel of activities, including bean bag throwing, skipping, running, and gymnastics. It was the perfect mix of sports events from past and present, keeping everyone engaged and active!
Curiosity Week concluded with students assembling and mounting their completed exhibits, incorporating soundtracks, props, and artefacts. A pre-opening review was conducted by Emily Dove, with the official unveiling set for Wednesday 22 January during the Year 7 Parents’ Evening.
Curiosity Week showcased independent inter-disciplinary learning, teamwork, and intellectual curiosity of our Year 7 students while celebrating SWPS’s rich history.
