Tag Archive for: boomerang

International Women in Engineering Day: Inspiring Future Pathways for Every Student

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Each year on 23 June, International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) gives schools across the UK a valuable opportunity to celebrate innovation, challenge stereotypes and, most importantly, open students’ minds to the exciting possibilities of engineering careers.

Founded in the UK and now recognised globally, INWED highlights the achievements of women engineers while encouraging more young people—particularly girls—to consider engineering as a future pathway.

For both primary and secondary settings, the day supports careers education by helping pupils broaden their aspirations and see how classroom learning connects to real-world opportunities.

 

Why INWED Matters for Student Aspirations

Engineering and technology offer some of the most dynamic and impactful career paths available. However, women remain significantly under-represented, making up only around 16–17% of the UK engineering workforce.

This gap often begins early, with many girls feeling that engineering is “not for them” before they even reach GCSE choices.

INWED offers a chance to counter these perceptions. By presenting engineering as creative, collaborative and meaningful, schools can help students to:

  • Understand the breadth of engineering careers
  • Recognise how engineering impacts everyday life
  • Feel confident in exploring STEM pathways

Ultimately, it is about empowering every student to consider possibilities they may not have previously imagined.

 

Five Inspiring Female Engineers to Share with Students

Using relatable role models is one of the most effective ways to engage pupils and spark curiosity. Here are five inspiring women whose stories can bring engineering careers to life:

  1. Dame Caroline Haslett (Electrical Engineer)
    A pioneer for equality in engineering, Dame Caroline Haslett founded the Women’s Engineering Society and worked tirelessly to promote opportunities for women in technical careers. Her legacy underpins initiatives like INWED and shows students how engineering can drive societal change as well as innovation.
  2. Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock (Space Scientist and Engineer)
    Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock has worked on satellite technology and now inspires millions through her science communication work. Her career demonstrates the exciting intersection of engineering and space exploration, helping students see STEM as creative, aspirational and accessible.
  3. Emily Warren Roebling (Civil Engineering Leader)
    Although not formally titled as an engineer, Emily Warren Roebling played a critical technical role in completing the Brooklyn Bridge. She studied engineering principles and oversaw construction when her husband became ill, demonstrating resilience, leadership and technical understanding. Her story highlights that determination and learning can overcome barriers—an important message for students.
  4. Dr Abbie Hutty (Aerospace Engineer)
    Dr Abbie Hutty, an Airbus engineer, has worked on major space programmes, including contributions to the ExoMars Rover project. Her work involves coordinating complex systems, showcasing teamwork, problem-solving and innovation in action.

Her career is an excellent example of how engineering leads to real-world achievements that extend far beyond the classroom.

  1. Roma Agrawal (Structural Engineer)
    Known for her work on The Shard in London, Roma Agrawal has become a prominent STEM ambassador, encouraging young people to explore engineering. Her work makes engineering highly visible and relatable, helping students connect the built environment around them to potential careers.

 

Creating Lasting Impact Beyond 23 June

International Women in Engineering Day is more than a single celebration—it is a chance to reshape how students view their future opportunities.

With engineering and technology sectors continuing to grow, the UK needs a more diverse workforce to meet future demand. By encouraging students early, schools play a vital role in addressing this challenge.

By promoting diverse role models, challenging stereotypes and highlighting exciting career pathways, educators can help ensure that every pupil—regardless of background or gender—can see engineering as a realistic and rewarding option.

In doing so, INWED becomes more than an event. It becomes a starting point for curiosity, confidence and ambition, helping to inspire the next generation of engineers.

 

engineeringuk.com

stem.org.uk

Planners

Hoodies

 

 

 

The History of the School Leavers’ Hoodie: From Simple Sweatshirt to School Tradition

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Walk through the corridors of any UK primary or secondary school in the summer term and you will see them everywhere. Bright colours, bold year numbers, school names and dozens of pupil names carefully arranged on the back. The school leavers’ hoodie has become one of the most recognisable symbols of the end of an academic journey. But this much‑loved tradition is more recent than many might expect.

 

Before the Hoodie: Early Leavers’ Keepsakes

The idea of marking the end of school with a shared keepsake long predates hoodies. For decades, pupils in the UK left school with signed shirts, autograph books or printed yearbooks. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, some secondary schools experimented with printed T‑shirts featuring the year group or a simple slogan, influenced by American high school graduation culture.

While these early garments captured the spirit of togetherness, they were often seasonal, informal and not always practical enough to be worn again.

 

The Rise of the Hoodie in the 1990s

The hoodie itself became a mainstream fashion item during the 1990s. Comfortable, durable and suitable for year‑round wear, schools introduced hoodies to PE kits, sports teams and after‑school clubs.

Schools soon recognised that hoodies offered something earlier leavers’ clothing did not: longevity. Unlike a T‑shirt, a hoodie could be worn again and again, long after pupils had moved on to secondary school, college or work.

 

The 2000s: Leavers’ Hoodies Become the Norm

By the early to mid‑2000s, leavers’ hoodies had firmly established themselves in UK secondary schools and sixth forms, before rapidly spreading into primary education, particularly Year 6 and P7 cohorts.

This period coincided with major improvements in printing and embroidery technology. Schools and suppliers could now offer:

  • Full class name lists on the back
  • Individual nicknames or surnames
  • School logos and crests
  • Multiple colour choices

For many pupils, the hoodie replaced the yearbook as the primary personal keepsake of their school years, while for schools it became a visible celebration of cohort identity and community.

 

Online Ordering and School‑Friendly Processes

The late 2000s and 2010s brought another significant shift: online ordering. Specialist school suppliers introduced secure ordering portals, allowing parents and pupils to choose sizes, colours and names directly, reducing administrative burden for staff and PTA organisers.

This change helped standardise leavers’ hoodies as part of the school calendar. Today, many schools plan hoodie orders alongside SATs, transition days and end‑of‑year events, with careful attention paid to safeguarding, data protection and affordability.

 

Modern Leavers’ Hoodies: More Than Clothing

Today, leavers’ hoodies are widely regarded as a rite of passage within UK schools. Research and commentary consistently describe them as symbols of belonging, shared experience and transition, particularly when leaving the primary phase, secondary phase and sixth form.

Modern designs reflect the values of contemporary education:

  • Inclusive sizing and fits
  • Primary‑appropriate and secondary‑appropriate styles
  • Colours aligned to school branding
  • Personalisation managed with consent

Leavers’ hoodies now sit naturally alongside planners, yearbooks and end‑of‑school celebrations as part of a wider approach to memory‑making and pupil wellbeing.

 

A Tradition That Continues to Grow

From simple printed sweatshirts to carefully designed keepsakes, the school leavers’ hoodie has evolved into a meaningful tradition that balances practicality with sentiment. For school staff, it represents far more than a garment: it is a visible marker of achievement, community and the shared journey pupils have taken together.

As education continues to change, one thing remains constant — pupils value tangible reminders of where they started, who they shared it with, and the teachers who guided them along the way.

 

Hoodies

Celebrating Bike Week 2026 in Schools: Pedal Power for Health, Learning and Community

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

From 8–14 June 2026, schools across the UK can get involved in Bike Week, an annual initiative organised by Cycling UK for over 100 years. As the country’s biggest celebration of cycling, Bike Week is designed to inspire people of all ages and abilities to experience the benefits of getting on two wheels.

For teachers, Bike Week offers an exciting opportunity to combine physical activity, environmental awareness, and community engagement—all within a fun, accessible framework for pupils.

 

Why Bike Week Matters for Pupils

Cycling is much more than a leisure activity—it plays a vital role in supporting young people’s physical and mental development.

Regular cycling contributes to:

  • Improved fitness and cardiovascular health
  • Enhanced mental wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and boost mood
  • Greater concentration and focus in the classroom

Encouraging active travel is particularly important, with research highlighting that many children are not achieving recommended levels of daily physical activity. Cycling provides an enjoyable and practical way to help meet the NHS guidance of at least 60 minutes of activity per day for young people.

Cycling also supports independence and confidence. Cycling UK notes that promoting cycling can help pupils develop self-worth, navigational skills, and road awareness, while also benefiting the wider community by reducing congestion and pollution.

 

Bringing Bike Week into the School Environment

Bike Week is intentionally flexible, making it easy for both primary and secondary schools to take part. Whether you organise a full programme or a few simple activities, the focus is on celebrating cycling in a way that works for your school.

  1. Encourage Active Travel

Promote cycling to school during the week:

  • Run a “cycle to school” challenge
  • Track participation by class or year group
  • Celebrate achievements in assemblies

Even small increases in cycling can contribute to healthier routines and reduced school-run traffic.

  1. Organise a School Ride or Event

Bike Week is a great time to bring your school community together:

  • Plan a supervised group ride or local route
  • Host a “Bike Week breakfast” or social event
  • Invite families to get involved

Cycling UK encourages informal, sociable events that make participation enjoyable and inclusive.

  1. Build Skills and Confidence

For many pupils, Bike Week is the perfect introduction to cycling:

  • Offer basic bike safety sessions
  • Link with Bikeability or local providers
  • Provide opportunities to practise riding in a safe space

Developing these skills early helps pupils feel confident cycling both in and beyond school.

  1. Link to Learning

Bike Week can easily support curriculum objectives:

  • Science: health, exercise, and the human body
  • Geography: sustainability and reducing carbon emissions
  • PSHE: personal responsibility and wellbeing
  • Maths: tracking distances, speed, or participation data

This cross-curricular approach helps reinforce learning in a meaningful, real-world context.

 

Supporting Healthier, Greener School Communities

Bike Week also aligns with broader school priorities around sustainability and wellbeing. Cycling is a low-carbon mode of transport that helps reduce air pollution and supports cleaner, safer communities.

For pupils, taking part fosters a sense of responsibility—both for their own health and for the environment. Schools that encourage cycling often find it strengthens relationships between staff, pupils and families, creating a shared goal and positive school culture.

 

Capture the Energy of Bike Week

Bike Week is full of memorable moments—from first rides to group challenges and shared achievements. Capturing these experiences is a valuable way to celebrate participation and inspire future cohorts.

Consider:

  • Taking photos during events and activities
  • Collecting pupil quotes and reflections
  • Creating displays around school

These snapshots not only showcase engagement but also reinforce the importance of active lifestyles.

 

Celebrate and Remember Your Bike Week

To make the most of your Bike Week celebrations:

  • Branded hoodies are a fantastic way to bring students and staff together, creating a sense of unity during rides, events, or challenges—while giving pupils a lasting keepsake.
  • Dedicated yearbook pages featuring photos of cycling activities, student achievements and highlights are a brilliant way to capture the energy of the week and look back on fun times in years to come.

 

cyclinguk.org

Hoodies

Yearbooks

Yearbooks Beyond Year 11: Creative Ways Schools Can Capture Memories All Year Round

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

When most secondary teachers hear the word yearbook, they automatically think of Year 11 leavers. A glossy end‑of‑school keepsake, packed with tutor group photos, messages and memories before students move on to their next chapter.

But traditional yearbooks don’t have to be limited to school leavers. Increasingly, schools are using yearbook‑style memory books across the school year to celebrate experiences, achievements and shared moments that deserve to be remembered – whatever the age group.

From trips and clubs to sports teams and school productions, yearbooks can become powerful tools for reflection, celebration and student voice.

 

Memory Books for School Trips & Expeditions

Residentials, overseas trips and curriculum visits often create some of the most memorable moments of a student’s school life. A trip‑specific yearbook allows pupils to document the experience in a meaningful way, long after the suitcase is unpacked.

Photos, short reflections, maps, diary entries and group shots can all be included, turning the book into a shared souvenir rather than something lost on a phone. These memory books work particularly well for:

  • Geography and history fieldwork
  • Language exchanges
  • Duke of Edinburgh expeditions
  • International or residential trips

They also offer a natural opportunity to build literacy, reflection and cross‑curricular learning into enrichment activities.

 

Celebrating Sports Teams & School Clubs

Sports teams, music ensembles and after‑school clubs often play a huge role in student wellbeing and school culture. A dedicated yearbook for a team or club gives students a sense of pride and belonging, especially for those who may not otherwise feature prominently in school publications.

A sports team memory book can include:

  • Team photos and match highlights
  • Player profiles and quotes
  • Tournament results
  • End‑of‑season awards

Similarly, clubs such as STEM, eco committees, debating societies or chess clubs can document their journey across the year, helping to recognise commitment and participation rather than just outcomes.

 

Drama, Dance & Performing Arts Keepsakes

Productions and performances take months of hard work, rehearsals and teamwork. A yearbook‑style programme or memory book is an ideal way to capture the behind‑the‑scenes side of school performances that a standard programme can’t.

These books might include cast and crew photos, rehearsal shots, personal reflections, costume designs and thank you messages. For students involved in drama, dance or music, this kind of keepsake becomes a lasting reminder of collaboration, confidence and creativity.

 

Marking Special Events & School Milestones

Schools are full of one‑off events that deserve more than a few photos on social media. Leavers’ assemblies, charity weeks, school anniversaries, enrichment days and themed weeks can all be commemorated with a simple yearbook-style publication.

These memory books help schools:

  • Build a sense of community
  • Document school history
  • Engage students in creative projects
  • Create tangible reminders of shared experiences

They can also be created by students themselves, supporting skills in writing, design, teamwork and organisation.

 

More Than a Book on a Shelf

What makes yearbooks so effective is their permanence. In a digital world, a physical memory book carries weight and meaning. It validates student experiences and creates something that can be revisited years later.

By using traditional yearbook formats more creatively, secondary schools can capture the full life of the school – not just the final year. Whether it’s a sports season, a drama production or an unforgettable trip, a well‑designed memory book ensures those moments are never forgotten.

Yearbooks aren’t just for leavers anymore – they’re for every story worth remembering.

 

Yearbooks

Earth Day 2026: Inspiring Environmental Responsibility in Schools

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Earth Day 2026, taking place on Wednesday 22 April, offers a valuable opportunity for schools to inspire environmental awareness, curiosity and action across all age groups. For teachers and school leaders, it is a moment to connect curriculum learning with real‑world issues, helping pupils understand not just what is happening to our planet, but why their choices matter.

 

When and Why Earth Day Began

Earth Day was first held on 22 April 1970 in the United States. It was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson who was concerned about the growing impact of pollution and environmental damage following a major oil spill off the coast of California in 1969. At the time, environmental protection was not widely discussed in politics or education.

The first Earth Day brought together an estimated 20 million people, including students, teachers and community groups, to campaign for cleaner air, water and land. This collective action led to significant change, including the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency and key environmental legislation. Since then, Earth Day has grown into a global movement, now marked in over 190 countries, with education at its heart.

 

Why Earth Day Matters for Schools Today

More than fifty years on, Earth Day remains highly relevant—especially for education. Today’s pupils are growing up in a world shaped by climate change, biodiversity loss and increasing pressure on natural resources. These topics can feel complex or even frightening, but schools play a crucial role in helping young people navigate them with knowledge and confidence.

Earth Day provides a positive framework for exploring sustainability through:

  • Science: ecosystems, climate, renewable energy
  • Geography: global connections, human impact on the environment
  • PSHE and Citizenship: responsibility, cooperation and ethical decision‑making
  • English and the Arts: persuasive writing, creativity and critical thinking

By grounding environmental learning in a recognised global event, teachers can help pupils see that caring for the planet is a shared and ongoing responsibility.

 

Making Earth Day 2026 Meaningful in the Classroom

Earth Day activities don’t need to be time‑consuming or stand‑alone. The most effective approaches embed sustainability into everyday learning in accessible, age‑appropriate ways.

  • Connect learning to action
    Simple, practical activities—such as reducing waste, auditing energy use or improving recycling systems—help pupils see the impact of small changes. These experiences encourage problem‑solving and foster a sense of agency.

 

  • Encourage pupil voice
    Assemblies, class discussions or eco‑councils give pupils space to share ideas and concerns. Being heard builds confidence and reinforces the idea that everyone can contribute to positive change.

 

  • Take learning outdoors
    Spending time in green spaces, school grounds or local environments strengthens pupils’ connection to nature, supports wellbeing and enhances observation skills across subjects.

 

Looking Beyond Earth Day

Perhaps the most important lesson of Earth Day 2026 is that environmental responsibility doesn’t end on 22 April. Sustained habits—such as reducing waste, conserving energy and valuing nature—help build a whole‑school culture of sustainability.

Earth Day is not about having all the answers. It’s about encouraging curiosity, care and confidence in the next generation. By using Earth Day 2026 as a springboard, UK schools can empower pupils to become thoughtful, informed citizens who understand their role in protecting the planet—today and in the future.

 

Boomerang Planners

Boomerang Hoodies

 

10 Great Reasons to Order School Leavers’ Hoodies with Us

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

As the end of the school year approaches, the excitement of celebrating your pupils’ achievements begins to build. One of the most loved traditions across both primary and secondary schools is the wearable keepsake—a school leavers’ hoodie.

If you’re considering leavers’ hoodies for your school, here are ten great reasons why we believe ordering from us makes the whole process smooth, enjoyable and completely stress‑free, and last year’s customers seem to agree!

 

  1. High‑Quality Hoodies That Last

Our hoodies are made to be worn, washed, and cherished. “The hoodies are lovely quality”: with soft, durable fabric and professional print or embroidery options, they are designed to look great long after your pupils have left the classroom.

 

  1. A Wide Range of Colours & Designs

“Smooth ordering process with a great choice of colours and fonts [designs]. The hoodies were great quality and delivery was very efficient.”  Whether your school prefers bold brights, classic tones, or unique back‑print styles, you’ll find the perfect look for your school’s personality.

 

  1. Easy Online Ordering

We know staff are busy. Our online shop takes away the hassle of collecting money or chasing orders. Parents can order directly, thereby saving your admin team hours of work. Or as one customer put it, “The idea of being able to hand over the ordering process to students/parents/carers has been great.  All I have to do is take delivery and give them out to students.’’

 

  1. Helpful, Friendly Staff

Our team is here to make sure your experience is smooth from start to finish. Need advice on sizes, colours, or timelines? We’re just a phone call or email away: “The team are really brilliant to work with. Really responsive and super helpful! This is my third year using Boomerang and it is always a pleasure.’’

 

  1. Clear & Reliable Communication

We keep you informed at every stage, ensuring confidence and peace of mind. One customer responded that, “Everything was great, all communication was quick and clear. The only improvement I would suggest is the hoodies to be labelled with the student’s name if possible.’’

We listen and act: all orders with 75+ hoodies are being labelled with the student’s name, size and colour choice this year before they are packed and despatched.

 

  1. Customisation Options for Every School

From printed or embroidered school logos to optional nicknames on the back or down the sleeve, you can personalise the hoodies to make them truly special.

While most schools are happy to choose from our selection of back print designs, if you have something unique to your school, or need a separate ‘leavers’ hoodie for a retiring Headteacher, just let us know.

 

  1. Great Value for Money

We offer competitive prices without compromising on quality, giving your pupils a fantastic keepsake that won’t stretch your budget.

 

  1. Fast, Reliable Turnaround

We understand deadlines—especially for events, assemblies and photos. Our production process is efficient, ensuring your hoodies arrive on time and our customers agree: “A fab service from start to finish, all deadlines and delivery dates met” and “Thank you so much for getting the hoodies to us earlier than we originally agreed. It was very much appreciated.”

 

  1. Perfect for Both Primary & Secondary Leavers

Our designs and sizing options cater for all ages, whether you have pupils leaving Prep School, Year 6 or Year 8, or students leaving Years 11/12 or 13/14.

“I’ve been using Boomerang for three years now, and it continues to be an absolute pleasure. The team is truly brilliant to work with, always responsive, friendly, and incredibly helpful. No matter the query or request, they go above and beyond to provide support quickly and efficiently. Their consistent professionalism and dedication make the whole experience smooth and stress-free. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them!”

 

  1. A Memorable Gift Pupils Love

Finally and most importantly, pupils adore them. A leavers’ hoodie is more than clothing—it’s a memory they’ll take with them into their next chapter and will continue to wear for years to come.

‘’Fabulous’’.

 

Boomerang Hoodies

 

 

Why Schools Come Back to Us for Their Yearbooks Every Year

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

Every year we ask our schools a simple question: why do you choose to create your yearbook with us?

Reading through the feedback is always one of the highlights of our year. Teachers are incredibly busy people, so knowing they trust us with something as special as their school yearbook really means a lot.

Looking through last year’s responses, a few themes kept appearing again and again. Here are some of the reasons schools tell us they keep coming back.

It’s the Support That Makes the Difference

One of the things schools mention most often is the support they receive from our team.

We know teachers are organising yearbooks on top of their normal workload, so we always try to make sure there’s someone available to help whenever it’s needed.

  • “The Yearbook team have been amazing – super quick at responding to any of my questions and always there to lend a helping hand.”
  • “Amazing support throughout the process.”
  • “…super helpful and answered all my questions by email and phone, right up to the last minute!”

Another school told us:

  • “Boomerang were great to work with, always available for help and support via email or phone call.”

For us, it’s simple — if a school needs help, we’re there. Whether it’s answering a quick question or helping solve a last-minute problem, our team genuinely enjoys helping bring each yearbook together.

We Try to Keep the Process Simple

Teachers also told us they appreciate how straightforward the whole process is.

We know how busy school life can be, so we aim to keep everything as simple and manageable as possible — from designing pages to placing the final order.

As one teacher explained:

  • “…very helpful and made this whole process very easy.”
  • “The book is fab, thank you for your support and making it so easy for us to put this together”

 

Making the process easy means teachers can focus on the fun part — capturing memories from the school year.

Many Schools Turn It Into a Tradition

One of the nicest things we noticed in the feedback was how many schools said they’ve been creating yearbooks with us for several years in a row.

For lots of schools, the yearbook has become a real tradition — something students look forward to as they approach the end of the year.

One teacher told us:

  • “I have used Boomerang for several years now and it is really straightforward to design an impressive book. Pupils can use the portal easily and I can edit it as they work on it.”
  • “Thank you for all your support over the last couple of years.”

Hearing that schools come back to us year after year is something we’re incredibly grateful for.

The Finished Books Make Students Smile

At the end of the day, the most important thing is the finished yearbook itself.

Teachers told us how much students enjoy looking back through the memories, collecting messages from friends and celebrating everything they’ve experienced during the year.

One school shared this lovely feedback:

  • “We are thrilled with our Class of 2025 yearbooks. The quality of the books for the price is outstanding.”

Another simply told us:

  • “Our students loved their yearbooks!”

Those moments when the books arrive and students start flipping through the pages together are exactly why yearbooks are so special.

  • “The yearbooks are of a very good quality and students and families are pleased with the finished product.”

We Love Being Part of It

Reading through the feedback, there were lots of kind words about individual members of the team and the service we provide.

One school summed it up perfectly:

  • “I have always found everyone at Boomerang very helpful and their products are of very good quality.”

And another said:

  • “Fantastic service and extremely helpful”

Comments like these genuinely mean a lot to our team, because we care deeply about helping schools create something that students will treasure long after they’ve left school.

Yearbooks capture moments that might otherwise be forgotten — friendships, school trips, inside jokes and all the little things that make a school year memorable.

And being part of that is something we never take for granted.

If your school is thinking about creating a yearbook this year, we’d love to help you bring it to life.

 

Boomerang Yearbooks

 

 

Celebrating International Maths Day: making the most of Pi Day on 14 March 2026

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

This year Pi Day falls on a Saturday but that’s no reason for it not to be celebrated in school, either the week before or week after!

International Maths Day—more commonly known as Pi Day—offers a brilliant opportunity for schools to celebrate the power, creativity, and everyday relevance of mathematics. For teachers and school staff, it’s the perfect moment to engage students in hands-on learning, spark problem‑solving conversations, and highlight how maths underpins so much of what they encounter both inside and outside the classroom.

 

Why Pi Day?

Pi Day falls on 14 March because the date, written numerically in the US as 3/14, reflects the first three digits of π (3.14), the famous mathematical constant, discovered in 250 BC by Archimedes, representing the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.

Whether students are just beginning to recognise shapes or tackling complex geometry, π provides a vital foundation for understanding the world in mathematical terms.

Beyond its numerical importance, Pi Day gives schools the chance to celebrate maths as a subject that encourages creativity, resilience, and curiosity—qualities that are essential not only academically but in lifelong learning.

 

Using School Planners to Explore π in the Classroom

Many students already carry a valuable maths resource with them every day—the reference pages in their school planners. These pages include essential formulas involving π, supporting learning across Key Stages.

The planner’s maths section includes clear, student‑friendly formulas for calculating:

  • Area of a Circle:
    A = πr², helping pupils explore curved shapes, scale and spatial reasoning.
  • Volume of a Cylinder:
    V = πr²h, showing how circles extend into 3D space—ideal for linking geometry to real‑world objects like cans, tubes and pipes.
  • Volume of a Cone:
    V = (1/3)πr²h, giving learners insight into how shapes change when tapering or narrowing, while strengthening formula‑substitution and problem‑solving skills.

Pi Day is a great opportunity to direct students to these planner pages, encouraging independent learning and helping them understand how mathematics is both accessible and relevant. These tools support learners in applying formulas, checking their understanding, and building confidence when working with π.

 

Creative Ways to Celebrate Pi Day in Your School

  1. Circle‑Themed Treasure Hunts
    Ask pupils to use the formulas from their planners to measure objects around the school. From circular tables to clock faces, learners can calculate circumference, area, or volume, turning the school grounds into a hands‑on geometry lab.
  2. Pi‑themed Assembly or Tutor Activities
    Share fascinating facts about π, its history, and its appearance in nature, architecture, design, and technology. Encourage students to bring examples from home or spot circular shapes in the school environment.
  3. Pi Recitation Challenge
    Invite learners to memorise and recite as many digits of π as they can—a fun, competitive activity that can energise the whole school community.
  4. Cross‑Curricular Opportunities
  • Art: Explore patterns made from circles, spirals, or rotations.
  • Design & Technology: Investigate cylinders and cones in product design.
  • Science: Connect circular motion, waves, or planetary orbits to π.
  1. Planner‑Based Worksheets
    Create quick starter tasks or extension activities directly referencing the maths formulas in the planners. This reinforces good study habits and helps students make the most of the learning tools they already have.

 

Celebrate the Beauty of Maths

International Maths Day is more than a date—it’s a celebration of problem‑solving, critical thinking, and the joy of discovery. By using the planner’s maths reference pages and engaging students in π‑focused activities, schools can turn 14 March 2026 into a time that strengthens confidence, curiosity, and connection across the curriculum.

 

Secondary Academic Planners

Primary Planners

Safer Internet Day 2026: Supporting Smart, Safe Choices in a Changing Digital World

/in , , , , /by

Safer Internet Day 2026 takes place on Tuesday 10 February. It is a chance to unite thousands of schools, organisations and educators across the UK in a shared mission to make the online world a safer and more empowering space for young people. This year’s theme — “Smart tech, safe choices: Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI” — reflects the rapid rise of artificial intelligence in students’ daily digital experiences. [saferinternet.org.uk]

As AI tools, smart devices, algorithms and chatbots increasingly become a part of everyday life, secondary schools have a vital role in helping to guide students in navigating these technologies with confidence and critical awareness. The UK Safer Internet Centre, which coordinates the national campaign, highlights the importance of helping young people understand not only how AI works, but how to recognise risks, question information and make informed decisions online.

 

Why AI Matters for Online Safety in 2026

AI now shapes everything from entertainment and social media feeds to study tools and home devices. While these technologies offer huge benefits — efficiency, creativity, personalised learning and accessibility — they also introduce new challenges. Content generated by AI may be inaccurate, biased or inappropriate for younger audiences, and students don’t always have the experience to judge its reliability. Schools are therefore encouraged to promote thoughtful use of smart technologies, helping students understand that while AI is a tool which can help, it is not an all‑knowing authority.

This year’s Safer Internet Day invites conversations around digital literacy, truthfulness of information, data privacy and responsible decision‑making — skills that are essential for young people’s wellbeing, resilience and long‑term digital citizenship.

 

Opportunities for Secondary Schools

For secondary school staff, Safer Internet Day provides a platform to:

  • Reinforce existing online safety messages, incorporating the role of AI into discussions about trust, scams, misinformation and digital wellbeing.
  • Encourage open, age‑appropriate conversations about how students might use AI in their own lives — perhaps as a homework support tool, during online gaming or in social media.
  • Promote critical thinking, especially around identifying when content may be AI‑generated, misleading or inaccurate.
  • Reiterate safeguarding responsibilities, reminding staff, parents and carers that online safety is an ongoing partnership between school and home.

Many schools will be marking the week with assemblies, tutor‑time activities, subject‑specific lessons, digital literacy challenges and whole‑school campaigns. Many organisations also offer free resources, including ready‑to‑use lesson materials, discussion prompts and videos tailored to different age groups.

 

A Shared Commitment to a Better Digital Future

Safer Internet Day is more than one day of activities — it’s a reminder of the collective responsibility educators, families and communities share in preparing young people for an increasingly AI‑driven world. By focusing on smart tech and safe choices, schools can empower students to use digital tools with curiosity, confidence and care.

 

Secondary Planners

Primary Planners

 

 

Children’s Mental Health Week 2026

/in , , , /by

Children’s Mental Health Week takes place this year from 9–15 February 2026, and it provides a valuable opportunity for schools across the UK to shine a light on the emotional wellbeing of their pupils. Organised annually by the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, the week aims to raise awareness and open up conversations around mental health among young people. [childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk]

 

This Year’s Theme: “This Is My Place”

The official theme for 2026, “This Is My Place”, focuses on the importance of belonging—helping children and young people feel valued, connected, and supported within their school community. Place2Be emphasises that a sense of belonging plays a vital role in children’s mental health, influencing their confidence, relationships, engagement and even academic outcomes. [childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk]

Belonging isn’t simply about fitting in: it’s about feeling safe enough to be yourself. Research in positive psychology highlights how connection, psychological safety, and supportive relationships, can act as protective factors for young people’s wellbeing, helping to buffer against stress and creating the conditions necessary for them to thrive. [worthit.org.uk]

 

Why Children’s Mental Health Week Matters in Schools

Schools sit at the heart of children’s lives, so the environments created in them truly matter. Children’s Mental Health Week encourages teachers and school leaders to consider how they can nurture inclusive, supportive spaces—both socially and emotionally. From class-based activities to whole-school discussions, the week provides rich opportunities for pupils to explore their emotions, reflect on relationships, and understand how to support their own wellbeing and that of others.

 

Using the Mental Wellbeing Pages in Our Student Planners

As part of Children’s Mental Health Week, the Mental Wellbeing pages included in our student planners can be an incredibly helpful tool. These sections are designed to support pupils if they are suffering from anxiety or low mood, or are worried about their eating or self-harm, both giving tips on how to self-help and suggesting when it’s time to ask for more support.

Teachers can use these pages during tutor time, PSHE lessons, or as reflection prompts throughout the week. Encouraging students to engage with the content helps them build practical skills they can continue using long after Mental Health Week has ended.

A Week That Lasts All Year

Children’s Mental Health Week serves as a reminder that wellbeing isn’t a one‑off topic: it’s an ongoing commitment.

Here are some simple ways pupils’ mental health can be supported in their classrooms every day:

  • Belonging Boards: younger pupils can contribute drawings, photos, or words that represent what belonging means to them.
  • Quiet Zones: a calm space where students can take a moment to reset—research shows these wellbeing-friendly environments can support psychological safety. [worthit.org.uk]
  • Student Voice Sessions: short group discussions where pupils can share what helps them feel included and supported at school.
  • Kindness Challenges: small acts of kindness which are shown to boost mood and reduce stress, can be encouraged and praised. [schoolofkindness.org]

 

By using resources available and embedding tools like the Mental Wellbeing planner pages into regular practice, you’ll help create a school culture where every child feels safe enough to be themselves.

 

Secondary Planners

Primary Planners