Virtual 'blogathon' leaves Worksop pupils loving lockdown learinng

The children from Norbridge Academy usually take part in a Blogathon each term – an all-day blogging event which includes staying overnight at school.

The year six children this year did not want to miss out due to Covid-19 restrictions so their teachers re-imagined the Blogathon to take place virtually, with many children joining in via video calls from their homes.

The virtual Blogathon included a murder mystery, where children had to gather evidence from a range of video clips to work out who poisoned their head teacher, George Huthart.

The children also watched videos of a Punch and Judy show and a 1950s visit to the seaside filmed by their teachers, which they used to write play scripts, non-chronological reports and setting descriptions.

Every child was provided a pack which enabled them to take part from home, filled with writing prompts and templates to support their learning, props linked to the different activities and a few treats to keep them going throughout the day.

Throughout the 12-hour marathon, the school received positive feedback from parents and pupils alike.

Claire Jackson, a parent, tweeted: “Thank you so much for a fantastic day.

"Zara had a great time trying to solve the clues and taking part in all the activities.

"So much hard work and planning had gone into the day as always.”

Heather Priest, another parent, tweeted: “Charlie absolutely loved it and so did I.

"It was a fantastic way to end the half-term!

"All the staff’s hard work was so worth it, well done to you all, amazing teachers.”

To round off the day children also took part in an online origami workshop with Mr Huthart, who also delivered spot prizes to children throughout the evening.

He said: “We are in challenging circumstances but aim to continue to provide engaging learning experiences for children.

It was wonderful to see them enjoying their learning from home and to see parents engaging with activities alongside their children as they supported them with some of the work.

“Blogathons are always one of the children’s favourite activities and we look forward to the next one in summer.”