Wellbeing with Carly
The Friend Ship
I used to work for an organisation called Fresh Theatre for Social Change, and we ran wellbeing workshops and programs in schools. One of the programs in particular teaches students all about relationships. Over the last few weeks I have had the pleasure of adapting this program, and running some big fun workshops with the Grade 4 students.
A drama and games based program on the topic of friendships. Together we have been learning how to build a ship... The Friend Ship.
One of my favourite parts of this program, has always been the conversations that we have inbetween all of the games. We have been discussing the things that go into buidling a strong friendship, the things that sometimes cause a friendship to fall apart, and how we can rebuild and move forward. Part of that conversation has been around learning how to predict the problems or issues before they happen, learning about body language, and about remaining calm and communicating clearly. We have been talking about being a community. About working together, cooperation, sharing, listening, taking turns, respect, and kindness. We will also talk a little bit about some conflict resolution skills. I love being able to offer students some tools for their tool box, and encourage/remind them that they can have a voice and still be kind.
Part of the script from Fresh Theatre, that we used in our program, is:
We become better sailors, and know what to do when it’s tough.
We become better sailors, and sail on when the seas become rough.
What’s more we see bad weather coming like arguments and nasty things said.
We can avoid any stormy weather by predicting the problems ahead.
And if there should be any damage
If the sails of trust are ripped through
Then we are Relation Ship builders.
And we will know what to do!
We are so lucky to be a part of such a supportive and inclusive school community, and I have been so proud of our students during these workshops. So many of them know what it takes to build a strong friendship.
BPS is not only a supportive school internally here in Blackburn, but we are working on being an inclusive, generous and encouraging school internationally! Stay tuned as we look at ways that we can have an impact on those who are less fortunate in our world.
We have recently started conversations around partnering with a school in the Philippines! More details to come soon!
Remember... "The best way to make a friend, is to be one!"
I hope you have a wonderful end to term! Enjoy the break!
Carly Cassidy - Wellbeing Officer for the BPS Community