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

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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

Looking Forward to Women’s History Month which Honours Inspirational Women and their Impact

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Every March across the world, Women’s History Month is celebrated as a dedicated time to recognise the achievements, struggles, and contributions of women throughout history. For educators, it presents a valuable opportunity to inspire pupils and spark important conversations about equality, representation and social progress.

 

What Is Women’s History Month?

Women’s History Month is an annual, month‑long observance that highlights the role women have played in shaping society. Originating in the United States in the 1980s before being adopted internationally, it serves as an extension of International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8 March each year. In the UK, it offers schools a chance to explore women’s experiences across history, from political activism to scientific discovery, literature, the arts, and beyond.

The month is widely marked by educational events, themed assemblies, exhibitions, classroom projects, and community initiatives. It encourages pupils of all genders to learn about women who may have historically been overlooked or underrepresented.

 

Why Do We Celebrate It?

Women’s History Month exists to address a long‑standing imbalance in how history has been told. For centuries, the achievements of women were frequently overshadowed or omitted altogether. By spotlighting women’s stories, schools help pupils understand that progress—whether scientific, political, cultural, or social—is the result of many voices, not just the dominant ones recorded in traditional narratives.

 

Celebrating Women’s History Month helps:

  • Promote gender equality by giving visibility to women’s contributions.
  • Inspire pupils with diverse role models across disciplines.
  • Challenge stereotypes and broaden pupils’ understanding of what women have achieved—and can achieve.
  • Strengthen representation so that girls in particular see themselves reflected in positions of influence.
  • Encourage critical thinking about fairness, inclusion, and social progress.

For school staff, this is also a chance to embed equality and diversity into the curriculum in meaningful, sustainable ways.

 

Five Inspirational Women to Explore with Pupils

Below are five remarkable women whose stories can spark curiosity and discussion in both primary and secondary classrooms.

  1. Mary Seacole (1805–1881) – Nurse, Healer, and Humanitarian

Mary Seacole was a British‑Jamaican nurse who cared for wounded soldiers during the Crimean War. Despite seemingly facing racial prejudice and rejection from the War Office, she funded her own travel and established the “British Hotel” to support soldiers. Her courage and compassion make her a powerful role model for resilience and determination.

  1. Emmeline Pankhurst (1858–1928) – Leader of the Suffragette Movement

A central figure in securing women’s right to vote in the UK, Emmeline Pankhurst founded the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), known for its motto “Deeds, not words.” Her activism changed British democracy forever and helped lay the foundations for gender equality today.

  1. Malala Yousafzai (1997– ) – Education Activist and Nobel Laureate

Malala’s global campaign for girls’ education began in Pakistan, where she advocated for schooling at great personal risk. After surviving an attack by the Taliban, she continued her activism on the world stage. At 17, she became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize winner and remains a modern icon of courage and advocacy.

  1. Ada Lovelace (1815–1852) – Pioneer of Computer Science

Often described as the world’s first computer programmer, Ada Lovelace worked with Charles Babbage on his early mechanical computer. She wrote what is considered the first algorithm and was visionary in seeing the potential of computing beyond mathematics. Her work inspires pupils interested in STEM subjects.

  1. Baroness Doreen Lawrence (1952– ) – Campaigner for Racial Justice

Following the tragic murder of her son Stephen, Doreen Lawrence became a powerful advocate for justice and equality. Her campaigning led to significant reforms in policing and public institutions, and she continues to champion community support, anti‑racism, and fairness.

 

Women’s History Month is a vibrant opportunity for UK schools to celebrate these stories and many more. By embedding women’s achievements into the curriculum—not just in March but throughout the year—schools help build a more inclusive, informed, and inspired generation of learners.

Secondary Planners

Primary Planners

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

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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

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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

 

Blue Monday and the Winter Blues: Supporting Wellbeing in Your School Community

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Every January, the term “Blue Monday” circulates widely—often referred to as the “most depressing day of the year.” While the science behind Blue Monday is widely disputed, what is real is that many students and staff feel the impact of shorter days, colder weather, and the long stretch between winter and spring. For school communities already working hard to maintain motivation and connection after the Christmas break, this period can bring an added layer of challenge.

Rather than viewing Blue Monday as a single date, it can be more helpful to think about the winter blues as a seasonal dip in energy, mood, or engagement. Secondary schools are busy and demanding environments, and feeling a little flat at this time of year is both natural and common. Recognising the signs early—and putting supportive practices in place—can make a significant difference to the mental wellbeing of your staff and students.

 

Why Winter Affects Mood

During the winter months, reduced exposure to daylight can disrupt sleep cycles and lower serotonin levels—both of which play an important role in regulating mood and maintaining focus. Students may find it harder to get up in the morning, stay motivated, or feel enthusiastic about learning. Staff may experience their own dips in energy, making the school day feel heavier than usual.

These changes don’t necessarily indicate a serious mental health concern, but they do highlight the importance of nurturing wellbeing through small, consistent actions.

 

Creating a Supportive Environment in School

Schools already do so much to promote connection, routine, and a sense of belonging—key protective factors against low mood. During winter, even small adjustments can make a noticeable impact:

  • Encourage movement: whether it’s brief times to simply stretch, outdoor time when possible, or active learning tasks, movement boosts energy and improves concentration.
  • Create opportunities for connection: group tasks, peer support circles, and regular one-to-one check-ins help students feel seen and supported.
  • Promote good habits: hydration, balanced eating, and regular sleep patterns can easily slip during winter. Gentle reminders can make a big difference.
  • Normalise conversations about mood and stress: when students understand that feeling low sometimes is normal and not something to hide, they’re more likely to seek support early.

 

Using Our Planners to Support Student Wellbeing

Our Mental Wellbeing pages, included as standard in our Academic and Pocket student planners, include Top Tips on how to manage low mood and other worries, not just on Blue Monday but whenever students feel they need support during the year.

These pages include common worries such as:

  • Feeling anxious
  • Low Mood
  • Eating
  • Self-harm

As well as tips on self-help, all the pages include links for further help and advice too.

 

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Although winter can feel long, it’s also a season of reset. By acknowledging the winter blues and nurturing wellbeing across your school community, you help students develop healthy habits they can carry into spring and the rest of the year.

 

 

Academic Planners

Academic 16+ Planners

Pocket Planners

Pocket Planners 16+

 

Tag Archive for: diaries