SoLFest 2016

Excitement has been building at Mulberry Academy Shoreditch as students and staff finalised preparations for the seventh annual Summer of Learning Festival (SoLFest).

The aim of SoLFest is to use fun and creative techniques to develop students’ learning through acting, singing and debating – all of which encourage them to collaborate effectively with others, problem solve, think critically and participate with confidence in live performances.

Amongst the vast array of activities, Macbeth was chosen as SoLFest’s headline ‘Shakespeare Day’ event.  Students were focussed, dedicated and worked tirelessly to perfect their performance on the day.

Ms Montgomerie, Deputy Principal, commented:  “The performance was spectacular; all of the students and staff have clearly put in an enormous amount of effort both with the scenery and production. Very many congratulations to all involved for their achievements today”.

As in previous years, SoLFest was included in our primary transition programme, with 180 Year 6 students invited to attend a full school day at the academy and participate in Shakespeare Day.

This year’s SoLFest also presented a unique opportunity for Teach First trainee teachers to become part of the festivities. As well as observing, assisting and delivering lessons and workshops as part of the day, eighteen Teach First History and English teachers led Shakespeare Day workshops during primary transition.

In addition to the assortment of whole-school activities, this year’s festival included a variety of exciting events aimed at Sixth Form students, including a Universities Fair, KPMG Employability Workshop and a visit to the University of East London.

Other highlights included: an art exhibition, summer concerts, various workshops and ‘education without walls’ events – a range of exciting activities enabling students to experience education outside of the classroom.  Activities included trips to Cambridge, Brighton, Southend and not forgetting the Year 10 Work Experience Programme.

We would like to thank all staff, students and parents for their continued support and once again making SoLFest an utter triumph!

Solfest_pic