The last week of term at SWPS is traditionally Wellbeing Week, designed to help our students’ mental health and wellbeing. Whilst completing the final week of timetabled lessons, wellbeing activities were interwoven, designed to help the pupils unwind, relax, and look forward to the holidays ahead.
A mix of festive and SWPS spirit spread amongst the community this week. The excitement began in the Sixth Form Centre with the arrival of the Elf on the Shelf. Mr. Johnston, Director of Sixth Form, had organised daily fun activities for the Elf and our Sixth Form students, and judging by the smiles on their faces, the students particularly enjoyed the ‘Let’s Dance’ disco and hot chocolate.
Year 7 decorated gingerbread houses in their German lessons – a fun and festive way to learn about German culture and practice their language skills – Frohe Weihnachten!
Form tutor groups had the traditional Christmas themed tree-decorating competition and Year 9’s enjoyed a relaxing movie with popcorn and hot chocolate.
On Monday, the annual 9 Lessons and Carols Christmas Service took place at St. Peter’s Church. In the tranquil candlelit atmosphere of the church our community was enchanted by the musical talents of the Chamber Choir, Community Choir, and Year 7 Choir; they brought us all together in celebration and appreciation of the festive occasion.
The wellbeing week continued with an opportunity for students to make some festive resin bookmarks and wooden decorations during lunchtimes in the library, which was enjoyed by students across the school.
Later in the week, the SWPS community gathered together in the Atrium to enjoy the musical delights of our Atrium Beatz ensemble. The lunchtime performance filled the Atrium with festive upbeat and uplifting music. We look forward to more performances from this co-curricular initiative, which aims to bring together musicians and performers across the school for an informal performance for students and staff to enjoy each half term.
Our student community came together on Thursday for the traditional and rather delicious Christmas lunch. The festive feast was enjoyed by both students and staff, who were all wearing their festive jumpers.
The Year 13 Panto is always the talk of the school and a much-loved tradition by the students and staff. Expectations are always high. This year’s panto did not disappoint, it was filled with laughter, creativity, and amazing performances. With the theme of ‘Teachers and a Time Machine’ it boasted unique costumes, hilarious one-liners and cameo appearances from members of staff. It was simply spectacular. Our Year 13s’ hard work truly paid off; congratulations to everyone involved for putting on such an amazing panto.
It has been an excellent way to end the term for all.
