When was ever honey made with one bee in a hive? – Thomas Hood

It was good to welcome everyone back after a much-needed half-term break and to see the girls bouncing in with a spring in their step. The next few weeks hold many events and celebrations in addition to the ‘usual’ programmes of learning and activities. Whether they are engaged in projects within the classroom, or are part of the preparation for a production, a carol service or a netball match, the students frequently need to draw on their team-working strengths. Some of us relish being part of a team, some prefer to work independently; some prefer to manage a task, others to come up with ideas.

This week we considered the importance of having clearly defined roles when working towards a goal as a team, and of having ground rules for how the team will operate. In this spirit, at the beginning of each academic year, every class draws up their own Class Contract in which they articulate what they feel is important for ensuring their form is a safe, enjoyable and effective place in which everyone can learn. It is important that the students discuss and agree what they feel is needed rather than being ‘told’ what the, often somewhat abstract, ‘rules’ are. In the very process of debate, much is learned and recognised.

In assembly we noted that necessary team responsibilities will vary with the task, but that they may include roles such as – timekeeper, recorder, manager/facilitator, spokesperson, challenger, checker etc. Whilst they may be drawn to a particular position, we encourage the pupils to try out different roles in order to develop their team-working strengths and to progress their understanding of how teams work (or don’t!)