The Year 9 Focus Day which took place today (Thursday, 8 January) offered a unique and enriching experience for students, providing them with practical insights and valuable skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Enterprise Session with UNLOC

Students engaged in a dynamic workshop lead by Unloc. They were tasked with designing and branding a new type of shoe or trainer, they looked at marketing strategies and pitched their ideas to Unloc. This hands-on activity allowed them to learn the basics of starting and running a business, giving them insights into entrepreneurship that can inspire future career aspirations. By exploring marketing strategies, students also developed an understanding of how to effectively promote and sell a product. This captivating task encouraged students to use their imagination and think creatively to develop an innovative and marketable product. We were impressed by the variety of inventive shoes and trainers designed, along with the innovative branding and marketing ideas - well done Year 9!

Gambling Awareness Session

The session led by Springfield staff on 'Gambling Awareness' provided students with crucial knowledge.  This included helping them to understand the risks as they learned about the potential negative impacts of gambling on individuals and their families, equipping them to make informed decisions in the future. The session educated students on the signs of gambling addiction, helping them identify when someone might need help. Students were also informed about where to find help and support, empowering them to seek assistance for themselves or others when necessary.

Overall, the Year 9 Focus Day was an invaluable opportunity for students to gain practical skills, broaden their understanding of important topics, and prepare for future challenges in both their personal and professional lives.