On Wednesday 19th November, our Year 7 and 8 students took part in a Human Rights Drop Down Day designed to deepen their understanding of global rights and responsibilities in recognition of Human Rights Day on 10th December 2025. Instead of attending their regular lessons, students engaged in a full day of immersive, interactive activities led by various departments and student leaders, all focused on exploring the importance, challenges, and relevance of human rights in today’s world.
Throughout the day, students were divided into six mixed-year groups and rotated through a series of engaging workshops. Each department approached human rights from a distinct perspective, offering students a rich and varied learning experience. In Drama, students devised powerful short scenes that highlighted violations of basic rights, using performance to build empathy and raise awareness. The English department encouraged creative expression through spoken poetry, while the Music department guided students in song-writing, enabling them to explore the theme of human rights. Meanwhile, the Modern Foreign Language (MFL) department focused on global access to education, examining the challenges many young people face in attending school around the world.
The PE department delivered a practical and eye-opening session in which students played sports while blindfolded, giving them insight into the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities. Meanwhile, the History department guided students through real-world case studies, prompting thoughtful discussions about access to schooling and the obstacles many young people around the world face in pursuing their right to education.
One of the highlights of the day was the student-led workshop on United Nations Human Rights, facilitated by Nexus K. and Angela L. Their session provided an informative and engaging overview of the UN’s role in protecting and promoting human rights globally. The day concluded with an art-based activity where students created posters to reflect and consolidate their learning.
The day began and ended in the theatre, where students concluded the event with powerful performances of spoken-word poetry and short UN Human Rights scenes that showcased their learning. Their enthusiasm, collaboration, and thoughtful contributions were truly inspiring. Our Year 7 and 8 students left with a deeper appreciation of human rights and the responsibilities we all share. We look forward to seeing their colourful and meaningful posters displayed around the school soon. A big thank you to all the staff who planned and led the sessions, making the day such a valuable and memorable experience.
Student Poetry & Reflections
Spoken Word Poetry
- Felixia M., Niamh L. and Yeosol L.
Our Voices and Nature’s Voice
On earth our voices are a force of nature
Every human has a right to a bright future
Nature is the bridge between our voices and our feelings
Mirroring our emotions when words fall apart
The trees speak in rustles, we speak in breath
Yet in every word, we share the same depth. - Sonia J. and Misha T. – Human Rights – Our Voices, Our Rights
(Education for Women)
Let her learn,
let her grow—
every girl deserves to know.
Give her books,
give her light—
education is her right.
Let her dream,
let her rise—
hope shines bright in her eyes.
Let her learn,
let her be—
knowledge sets her spirit free.
Student Feedback About The Day
- Sonia J.
“The Human Rights Drop-Down Day really opened my eyes to what’s happening around the world. My favourite activity was the ‘Paralympics’ one because it helped me understand how hard disabled people have to work when taking part in sports. Some athletes are blind, deaf, or have physical disabilities, yet they still train and compete with amazing determination. It showed me that it’s not just about being strong physically, but also having a strong mind. I’m also grateful to Sir Ludwig Guttmann for creating the Paralympics and giving disabled people the chance to be included and respected in society.” - Yeosol L.
“The Human Rights activity reminded me of the importance of fairness and respect. I also enjoyed discussing human rights with friends from different backgrounds, which was especially memorable.”
Mrs Kate Fowler and Mrs Jenny Garnett
Deputy Headteacher, Pastoral Care & Students Wellbeing and Assistant Headteacher, Wellbeing and Behaviour