To see a full list of Period X sessions and find out more about the programme, read our Period X Brochure 2022
What is Period X?
At Shrewsbury High School we have a long and proud history of achievement and in order for this to continue it is essential that we focus on meeting the contemporary needs of our students in order to prepare them for the world of tomorrow. It is with this thought in mind that we created our new and exciting enrichment programme; Period X. X is the unknown in many maths problems, the X factor is a special talent or quality, something that cannot be exactly defined. It is this special talent and quality we seek to find in our students. By definition Period X is dynamic, engaging and motivational so that is eagerly pursued by our students and adapts to accommodate their changing needs. Our programme adds value to our curriculum and is a core part of our school day where students can practise their character virtues and acquire skills, knowledge and experiences relevant to our local area and hinterland, reflecting the far-reaching catchment of our students.
Before launching Period X, we engaged all pupils, parents and staff in the planning stages, inviting them to identify the skills they think are critical to develop and contributing to ideas regarding topics.
How does Period X work?
Finally, the Creativity block provides an opportunity for students to opt for activities they have an interest in or would like to develop a skill in such as Upcycling furniture, basic car maintenance, history of art, Amnesty International, bushcraft, crocheting and many more.
Each year group rotates around the themes to allow for programming of specific areas such as food, gardening and yoga and to provide specialist teaching. This rotation also allows us to address the key times each year for specific year groups, for example, year 9, 11 and 13 will have a mental wellbeing block prior to summer and mock exams and year 6 girls will have mental wellbeing in the run up to entrance exams.
Introducing our Head of Period X – Michelle Reece
Having taught for twenty-one years in a variety of different educational settings I have gained great experience in identifying the different activities that allow students to develop particular skills. My undergraduate degree is in Physical Education where skills such as communication, cohesion, confidence and leadership are inherent in the subject. As a previous Head of Girls PE, I recognise in particular the importance of being a strong and supportive role model for students, providing opportunities that challenge and stimulate students to develop resilience and achieve success
Its Success so Far
In terms of its effect on pupil and staff wellbeing, it is already clear that taking this strategic pause at the heart of the school week to devote real and precious time to our life skills course is well worth doing. Here at Shrewsbury High School, we recognise that providing a curriculum that is dynamic, that changes to reflect the world around us and that meets the needs of our students is vital as we move forwards.
As we planned for the launch of this new programme, Mr Payne, wrote about the thinking behind it in his blog: Curriculum Matters