One Trust Culture Day

Last week, we proudly hosted our very first One Trust Culture Day at Beckfoot Trust. Bringing together staff and students from all 10 of our schools to engage in a variety of exciting activities and insightful lessons. This week-long celebration highlighted the diversity and experiences of everyone within our Trust, fostering a deeper sense of community and belonging.

The inspiration for One Trust Culture Day came from valuable feedback collected during listening sessions with students across our Trust. These sessions revealed a strong desire among students to learn more about each other’s cultures and backgrounds. In response, we designed a full day to celebrate our diversity, and develop our staff students understanding and mutual respect.

Celebration of our diversity was at the heart of the event, providing a platform for everyone to gain an appreciation for the cultures represented in our schools and Trust and to continue working together towards building a stronger sense of belonging and mutual respect. Through activities, discussions, and shared experiences, students were able to reflect on their own identities while learning about the backgrounds of their friends.

Highlights of the week included:

Wednesday 2nd April – Celebratory Eid event at Beckfoot Upper Heaton

Beckfoot Upper Heaton hosted a special Eid celebration, bringing together staff from across our Trust, local councilors, members of the local police force, and the dedicated school committee. The event, a vibrant display of community spirit, marked a significant moment in our Trust’s commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering unity.

Headteacher Biman K. Dey warmly welcomed guests and ensured everyone enjoyed a delicious traditional Eid feast, featuring dishes such as crispy onion bhajis, flavorful samosas, tender tandoori chicken, and fresh, crisp salad.

Thursday 3rd April – Beckfoot Phoenix Holi colour run

On Thursday, students, staff and families engaged in an exciting and vibrant Holi colour run.

Inspired by the Hindu festival of Holi, also known as the Festival of Colours, the event offered everyone a chance to not only participate in a lively, colourful activity but also to learn more about the rich cultural and religious significance behind the festival. Holi is traditionally a time for people to come together, celebrate the arrival of spring, and embrace joy, unity, and the breaking down of social barriers.

Friday 4th April – Beckfoot Thornton interactive stalls

The excitement continued on Friday, April 4th, as students at Beckfoot Thornton had the opportunity to visit interactive stalls set up in the school hall. These stalls showcased different cultures from around the world, offering students a chance to explore traditions, customs, and histories. In addition, the extended version of the Trust’s Culture Day video was shown, further enriching students’ understanding of the event’s themes.

In a show of solidarity and respect for the event’s ethos, students and staff wore clothing that represented their unique identities, symbolizing the school’s commitment to inclusivity and mutual respect. The canteen also played its part by offering a differentiated menu, providing students with the opportunity to taste a variety of foods from different cultures.

The success of our first One Trust Culture Day has set a positive precedent for future events, as we continue to work together to build One Trust where all belong.