At Surbiton High School, we recognise that education extends far beyond the traditional curriculum. SCOPE Day at the Senior School provided a powerful reminder of the importance of equipping our pupils with essential life skills, fostering resilience, and nurturing well-being. By engaging with leading experts and participating in interactive activities, each year group explored themes that will help shape their future success and personal development.
Empowering Pupils Through Meaningful Conversations
Year 7 had the opportunity to learn from Ramita Anand, author and Founder of Elevate.RA shared valuable insights on navigating friendships through the ‘superpowers’ of empathy and resilience. Alongside this, pupils participated in a sing-along session, enjoyed creative card-making, and reflected on the importance of kindness through a biscuit-decorating activity. These moments of creativity and camaraderie reinforced the significance of connection and emotional intelligence in their early secondary school years.
Year 8 tackled the complexities of social media with Deana Puccio’s ‘#MoreThanASelfie’ talk. Through this session, pupils explored the impact of online platforms on body image and self-esteem while learning strategies for maintaining a balanced digital life. Financial literacy was also on the agenda, with Wize Up Education leading a budgeting workshop. A hands-on well-being craft session, where pupils created ‘God’s Eye’ weavings, encouraged mindfulness and reflection.
For Year 9, financial independence and critical thinking were key themes. Pupils participated in a budgeting workshop delivered by Wize Up Education, applying real-world financial principles to hypothetical life scenarios. They also engaged in a thought-provoking session with Henry Hudson from People Change Minds, exploring the power of perspective and self-awareness in shaping their future decisions.
Building Resilience and Financial Awareness
Year 10 benefitted from a neuroscience-driven online session with Tj Power, which explored how rebalancing brain chemistry can enhance mental well-being. They also gained practical financial insights from Mr Mike Gibbons’ ‘Money Matters’ talk before participating in an eye-opening session with the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation. This discussion on drugs and alcohol awareness provided evidence-based strategies for making informed and responsible choices.
Year 11 deepened their understanding of mental resilience with Tj Power’s session and engaged in a talk from the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation, reinforcing the importance of making safe and educated decisions. The afternoon was dedicated to well-being, with pupils choosing from a selection of activities, including a river walk, crafts, and mindfulness sessions.
For Year 12, a focus on mental and physical well-being saw pupils exploring strategies for maintaining balance in a digitally driven world with Tj Power. They also attended a session with Henry Hudson, reflecting on personal growth and resilience. A Gong Sound Bath experience offered a unique opportunity for relaxation and mindfulness, highlighting the importance of self-care in the Sixth Form years.
Preparing for the Future
Year 13 took ownership of their well-being by curating a carousel of activities designed to address key aspects of self-care and stress management. Sessions ranged from self-massage and reflexology to laughter therapy and skin care. Deana Puccio’s ‘The Uni-Verse’ talk provided practical guidance on transitioning to university, taking a gap year, or entering the workforce. This discussion equipped pupils with strategies for navigating this pivotal stage with confidence and self-awareness.
Staff also participated in well-being activities, demonstrating the school’s commitment to holistic care at every level. Laughter therapy and a Sound Bath session reinforced the importance of mental and emotional well-being, not only for pupils but also for those who support them.
The Lasting Impact of Scope Day
SCOPE Day highlights the importance of a well-rounded education. By engaging with experts, participating in interactive workshops, and embracing moments of reflection, our pupils took meaningful steps towards personal growth.
At Surbiton High School, we believe that fostering resilience, self-awareness, and practical life skills is just as important as academic achievement. The lessons from SCOPE Day will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, equipping our pupils with the tools they need to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Categories: Senior School