March 23rd is the National Day of Reflection – it marks one year on since the first UK lockdown – and what a year it has been. We have lived through a pandemic and we are part of history!
The National day of Reflection is supported by the Church of England to commemorate the tragic loss of life and to stand together with everyone who is grieving. St Michael’s will observe one minute of silent reflection at 12 o’clock to show our support.
However, on this day of reflection we not only want our children at St Michael’s to think about what we have lost, but also to reflect about what we have gained during this unprecedented year.
what Year 1 have learnt:
- My dad taught me all the sports like football and basketball.
- I did learn how to draw. I did drawings every day.
- I learnt about chain reactions, my mum taught me its how the virus spreads it is a chain reaction.
- I learnt a new word – lifecycle!
- My mum taught me how to clean the whole house! Other things we said we had learnt from lockdown: skipping, walking, painting, cooking, maths, cycling.
Here are some of the reflections from children in the KS2:
“I feel I have gained a better fitness level and learnt to be more resilient. I’ve learnt to have more fun and enjoy everything while it lasts. I felt like some non-essential shops should have been open at first but then realised it was for the better they were closed. I felt that my parents were having a tricky time with juggling work and taking care of my brothers so I tried to make it better for them.”
“I have learnt to keep my body healthy and to read more than usual. I gained a pet and other ways to keep myself occupied. I was scared that I would get sick, but now I know more, I have learnt it is easier to do things outside without being fearful.”
“In the first lockdown in March, I felt bored because I couldn’t go anywhere. I think I gained lots of love because everyone calls me to talk to me and see me. I have learnt to never take advantage of life because it could be much worse.”
“I learnt how to do the dishes and make hot chocolate or tea for my mum.”
“My experience is that school is better than home learning even though I don’t really like school. School is better because you can understand more than you would at home.”
“Although learning from home was hard, I have learned to stay connected with friends and family. I’ve gained better relations with the family I live with and I became more creative as a way to keep my mind in lockdown.”
“I learnt different methods of working things out and how to make chocolate cake.”
“My experience in lockdown was OK but quite frightening at times like when you were locked in your homes for six months! I have learned that math fractions can be very hard.”
“I have learnt to interact with people and talk to them because you never know when you’ll see them again. I have gained the ability to pick the good from the bad.”
“I felt happy and sad. Happy because I got to know my family better. Sad and annoyed because of the same routine. So I changed it by working out and waking up early to go and play football with my brothers. The biggest change is that we have to wear masks everywhere!”
God of Love,
As we think about all that has changed this year,
help us to trust that you are always with us.
As we remember those who have died,
help us to trust they are at peace with you.
As we reach out to others with kindness and care,
may hope shine out in every heart and home.
Amen