High-flying learners on the ‘write’ track
PUPILS at a secondary school have taken on journalist roles to create their very own newspaper.
The challenge is part of a pioneering Advanced Learner project at Tytherington School for academic high flyers in Year Seven.
The project also involves a series of Secret Mission assignments designed to challenge and stretch students both inside and outside of the classroom.
After interviewing staff, students and members of the local community for the paper, the students will also produce a double page spread for Bollington Live, working with the editor, Annette Hurst.
They will then have a unique opportunity to see the entire process through, from design and writing to printing and production.
They will also get to take part in the delivery of the magazine to houses in Bollington in March.
Headteacher Emmanuel Botwe said: “We have an exceptionally able and keen Year Sevens and the programme is about stretching our students.
“We want to develop all our pupils to ensure they are articulate, intellectually curious and socially conscious.
“The Advanced Learner Programme provides all of those opportunities.”
Mrs Caroline Burke, leader of the Advanced Learners, said: “We are hoping to host an information and rewards evening later this half term to celebrate some of the achievements of our young people.”
Budding writers at the school also enjoyed a Creative Writing Workshop open to all Year Sevens and delivered by former pupil and published author, Charles Eades.
In the workshop students were given some useful advice on the writing process and the chance to practise their skills.
Mr Botwe has also introduced a Bucket List Challenge for all the Year Seven pupils, a list of 15 tasks to appeal to different tastes and talents, including learning how to play a song on a musical instrument, helping an elderly person with shopping or chores, or creating an idea for filling an empty shop unit in Macclesfield.
Students can also participate in the ‘Tenner Community Business Challenge’, where they will be able to develop their entrepreneurial skills by creating a community enterprise business from a £10 investment.