Milborne St Andrew THE first school has been very busy raising its pupils’ awareness of the lives of children in other countries and the rights and responsibilities of children throughout the world, including the right to clean water, food, shelter, medical care and education. To achieve this, with support from the Friends of the School, they held a Global Fortnight, which included stories, songs, music, cooking and a variety of visitors, providing a very interesting educational journey around the world.

A great time was had when Noah Messomo came with all his drums, telling traditional African stories and involving the children in a day of drumming, culminating in a wonderful children’s performance for the parents and governors, which the audience enjoyed as much as the children did!

Peter Farrington, headteacher of the Prince of Wales First School in Dorchester, visited on another day to show slides and speak of his visit to India.

He taught lessons based on UNICEF children’s needs and ran a yoga and Indian dance session for all children and staff.

Rahi Bains told stories, played traditional Indian instruments, as did the children and explained the Hindu faith. Jane Silver-Corren talked about life in a Jewish home.

All the children were involved in tree planting as well, increasing their environmental awareness.

Money was raised for Comic Relief in the middle of the Global Fortnight by all the children dressing in red with an international theme for the day and a family assembly where there were plenty of volunteers who did something Funny for Money.

Towards the end of the fortnight Classes 1 and 2 visited France, whilst staying in Milborne!

Having made their passports, the children took a trip through a specially constructed channel tunnel to meet their hosts in Classes 3 and 4 who shared all they have learnt through their French lessons this term.

They enjoyed music, songs and food (especially croissants and hot chocolate!) and the sights of Paris.

Two pupils also organised a highly successful bring and buy sale to raise money for ‘Mission Nutrition’ the latest Blue Peter appeal.

The fortnight ended with a celebration assembly for family and friends to share in all that the children had learned.