Harmony Day

“Japanese Theme”

On Friday, 14th March, St. Brendan’s school community gathered together to celebrate Harmony Day, with a special focus on launching Japanese language at our school.

From the moment the students walked in our gates, the level of excitement and energy was high with the sounds of laughter ringing out as friends admired each other’s effort to represent their country of culture or special interest.

Each Learning Community was provided with a full day of immersive activities where students learnt about the Japanese culture, as well as working together in our multicultural community here at St. Brendan’s.

Our day began with a whole school gathering led by our Year 6 students, followed by a parade of colourful fabric, hats, decorations and hair dos! DJ Seth provided the upbeat sound tracks, promoting a sense of fun and inclusiveness!

JUNIOR YEARS

The Junior Years students worked alongside their teachers to make and create a number of Japanese inspired items, as well as experiencing some modern versions of Japanese party games. For some students, the highlight of the day may have been practicing using their very own set of chop sticks whilst eating fresh cut fruit and playing a pop corn game. Whilst the chop sticks were very challenging, many students demonstrated great perseverance in gaining this new skill.

MIDDLE YEARS

In Middle Years, the students participated in various activities encouraging health and fitness as well as developing their understanding of several Japanese traditions and customs. The highlight for many was being led by Michael Doyle Sensay in a Karate workshop where they learnt some core movements of the discipline as well as how to tie their own karate belt. Following this was a fun party games session where they raced each other in a ‘Giant Pants’ game, similar to a 3 legged race; It was very entertaining to see Mr. A and Mr Cooper have a turn at this game!

SENIOR YEARS

In Senior years, students learnt about the importance of goal setting in Japanese culture. Daruma, the round-shaped paper-mache doll was decorated while the students set themselves a goal for the year. They were to then colour only one eye in and hopefully, the other eye would be coloured in at the end of the year if they were able to achieve their goals. As part of the Japanese sports games, the students participated in the three-tiered Daruma relay. The relay required students to work together in order to win.

Senior Years students also were immersed in the Japanese culture by taking part in the traditional sport of Sumo Wrestling. Through the hiring of sumo suits, helmets and mats, students were able to safely learn the basic rules and skills of sumo wrestling whilst having fun competing in matches against their friends. Full of laughter and enjoyment, sumo wrestling was a big hit amongst both the students who participated and the staff who were lucky enough to spectate.

Thank you to everyone for your participation in our Harmony Day Celebrations.

From the Specialist Team

Wood Sensay, Mr Baxter, Mrs Pellegrino & Mrs. Collins