Learning about festivals and celebrations serves several important aims and outcomes for the pupils at Countess Gytha:

Cultural Understanding and Appreciation: Festivals and celebrations are integral parts of various cultures and communities around the world. Teaching children about different festivals helps them develop an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural practices, traditions, and values.

Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion: Learning about festivals promotes inclusivity by recognising and respecting different cultural backgrounds within the school community. It helps foster an environment where children feel valued and accepted regardless of their cultural heritage.

Global Awareness: In today's world, it's essential for children to develop a global perspective. Learning about festivals and celebrations from different countries and cultures exposes them to the richness and diversity of the world, helping them become more globally aware citizens.

Social and Emotional Development: Festivals often involve communal activities, rituals, and traditions that can contribute to ' social and emotional development. Participating in festival-related activities can enhance teamwork, cooperation, empathy, and understanding of others' perspectives.

Historical and Geographical Context: Many festivals have historical, religious, or geographical significance. Studying festivals provides opportunities for students to learn about different historical events, religious beliefs, and geographical locations, thereby enriching their knowledge and understanding of the world.

Creative Expression: Festivals often involve various forms of creative expression such as art, music, dance, and storytelling. Engaging in creative activities related to festivals allows students to express themselves, explore their creativity, and develop their artistic skills.

Community Engagement: Festivals and celebrations often bring communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Children can use festivals as opportunities to engage with the local community, organize collaborative events, and strengthen ties between students, families, and the broader community.

Overall, learning about festivals and celebrations will promote cultural awareness, empathy, creativity, and social cohesion, all of which are essential for students' holistic development and their ability to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Throughout the school year, we will share all photographs and emails and messages with our link schools to inform them of all our festivals and celebrations that take place at Countess Gytha. This will  inform the children at Countess Gytha of the festivals and celebrations that take place around the world.

Sala Monkey Cambodia Happy New Year message

The history of Cambodian arts, including traditional Khmer dance, is deeply intertwined with the country's rich cultural heritage, dating back centuries. These artistic traditions flourished during the Khmer Empire, with dance serving as a form of religious expression, storytelling, and entertainment.

However, the devastating rule of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979 dealt a severe blow to Cambodia's cultural heritage. Under the Khmer Rouge regime, intellectuals, artists, and anyone associated with the previous regime were targeted and killed, leading to the destruction of much of Cambodia's artistic legacy. Traditional dance was banned, and many dancers and musicians were persecuted or killed.

Despite the immense loss and trauma inflicted by the Khmer Rouge, efforts to revive and preserve Cambodian arts, including traditional Khmer dance, have persisted. Today, teaching these art forms to Khmer children is crucial not only for cultural preservation but also as a form of resilience and defiance against the atrocities of the past. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the Cambodian people and their determination to reclaim and celebrate their cultural identity.

Additionally, mastering these dances promotes physical health, discipline, and teamwork, while also providing opportunities for artistic expression and creativity among the younger generation.

Mardi Gras 2024

Better late than never, Excalibur and Lancelot children celebrated Mardi Gras
this week. The actual date for Mardi Gras is always held on Shrove Tuesday, so
unfortunately due to this being in half term this year our festivities had to wait
until this week. The children researched what happens on Mardi Gras and why
it is celebrated, whilst adorning masks, headdresses and beads. They are looking
forward to sampling some King Cake next week to complete their topic.