Little Animal Adventures: Learning Through Play!

Today, our Upper Primary students enjoyed another inspiring Leadership Lunch, welcoming Mr Tianjing Zhou to share an insight into his fascinating career with PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator).

Mr Zhou introduced the students to the world of collectors’ cards, explaining how PSA professionally grades and authenticates cards, and giving the children a behind-the-scenes look at how the process works. The students had the opportunity to learn about a career they may never have encountered before, discovering how specialist knowledge, attention to detail and a passion for something can develop into a profession.

Most importantly, Mr Zhou's presentation encouraged the children to think about their own interests and passions, inspiring them to consider how something they love doing today could one day become a career. His message was a wonderful reminder that there are many different paths to success, and that following our interests can open up exciting opportunities for the future.

Leadership Lunch is a programme for our Upper Primary learners that invites guest speakers from our wider community to share something interesting about themselves – whether that is their occupation, a hobby, a personal interest or something they feel passionate about. Each session gives students the chance to discover new ideas, explore different career possibilities and learn from the experiences of others.

The benefits go far beyond learning about different jobs. These opportunities help our students to:

• Broaden their horizons by discovering careers, experiences and interests they may not have known existed.
• Develop aspirations and begin to imagine the many possibilities available to them in the future.
• Build confidence and curiosity by asking questions and engaging with people from different backgrounds and professions.
• Make real-world connections between their learning, personal interests and the wider world.
• Recognise the value of passion, perseverance and individuality in finding a fulfilling path in life.

A huge thank you to Mr Zhou for giving up his time and sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with our students. We are very grateful for his contribution!

Could you be our next guest speaker?

We are always looking for volunteers from our school community who would be willing to join us for a Leadership Lunch and share their story with our Upper Primary students. You don't need to have an unusual job or be an expert in something – perhaps you have an interesting hobby, a personal passion, a unique experience or simply a story that could inspire our learners.

If you would like to get involved, please take a look at the attached poster for contact details. You could be the inspiration that sparks a student's next big idea!

By Niamh Dunne

Year 6 Bears Class Teacher