HSIE

As part of our introduction to the Social and Cultural World in Society and Culture, Year 11 students explored the Boules and Yenitsari carnival of Naousa, a unique Greek tradition that takes place each year during the Carnival period. Dating back to the period of Ottoman rule, the festival features masked participants dressed in traditional costume who move through the town in a carefully structured procession. The ritual is rich in symbolism and reflects themes of resistance, identity and community continuity.

Mr Aligiannis shared his own connection to the festival, offering students insight into its significance beyond what can be found in a textbook. He brought in artefacts linked to the tradition, allowing students to see and handle items connected to the costumes and customs. Mr Booc’s class also joined the session, creating a collaborative learning experience across classes.

The case study provided a meaningful way to connect classroom theory with real cultural practice. Students applied core concepts such as identity, continuity and change, gender and power and authority to a living tradition, deepening their understanding of how culture shapes societies and communities over time.

Mr. V Aligiannis

Heas Teacher HSIE