Creating Memorable Experiences: The Art of Event Planning

As Social Prefects, event planning is more than just organising activities—it’s about creating memories that connect people. In this write-up, we’ll share the process of going from initial ideas to successful execution, using events like the Halloween Haunted House and Christmas Secret Santa to illustrate the journey. The goal is always to make each event inclusive, enjoyable, and something students genuinely look forward to.

Understanding what people enjoy is the first step to a successful event. Before the Year 11 Social, we ran a quick poll to decide the format, which led to the inclusion of both games and a chill-out zone to suit different personalities. The result was a great turnout and lots of positive feedback.

One of our most ambitious projects was the Halloween Haunted House. A section of the school was transformed with themed decorations, spooky sound effects, and even a few students who acted as spooky characters to surprise and scare their peers. It required detailed planning—from allocating scare zones to timing lighting cues—but seeing everyone laughing and screaming in equal measure made the effort worth it.

Teamwork is key. Responsibilities were divided early on, from set-up crews to publicity. For the Christmas Secret Santa Social, we organised a draw system, coordinated gift guidelines, and hosted a cosy event with music and snacks. Clear delegation kept everything running smoothly and reduced last-minute stress.

Inclusivity matters. During the Spring Festival Social, we incorporated activities from different cultures and ensured there were both quiet and energetic spaces. The Icebreaker Social at the start of term also helped new students settle in, with games designed to encourage mingling without pressure. These thoughtful touches helped everyone feel welcome.

Planning social events has taught us the importance of listening, preparation, and teamwork. From spooky scares to festive fun, each event—from the Halloween Haunted House to the Spring Festival—has helped build a stronger, more connected year group. As Social Prefects, we’ve learnt that what makes an event memorable isn’t just the theme, but how well it brings people together.

Josh, Viviana, Elie
Social Prefects 2024/25