In Monday’s assembly, Mrs Reid brought together two inspiring occasions, International Women’s Day and Science Day encouraging children to reflect on curiosity, equality and the power of discovery.

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” highlights the importance of supporting gender equality in meaningful ways. This might include educating others, challenging discrimination, or offering support through donations and advocacy.

International Women’s Day was first celebrated over 100 years ago, in 1910, with the aim of promoting equality for women around the world. While much progress has been made, the World Economic Forum predicts that full global gender equality may not be achieved until 2158. This is a reminder of the importance of continuing to challenge stereotypes and work towards a fairer future.

Mrs Reid spoke to the children about the importance of equality, respecting one another’s rights, and standing up against bias and discrimination. The message linked beautifully with Science Day, as children learned about remarkable women who overcame barriers to become pioneers in science and exploration.

Among those celebrated were Marie Curie and Tu Youyou, both Nobel Prize winners; Dorothy Vaughan and Christine Darden, pioneering NASA mathematicians and engineers; Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel into space; and Gladys West, whose work helped develop the technology behind GPS. Their stories reminded children how curiosity and courage can lead to world-changing discoveries.

The theme of curiosity continued throughout the day as children took part in a range of exciting science activities. A highlight was the incredible inflatable planetarium in the school hall, where children experienced immersive sessions.

Alongside these cosmic adventures, children enjoyed a variety of hands-on investigations. Activities included becoming “Fingerprint Detectives”, exploring Murphy’s Law, and designing and testing their own paper aeroplanes and rafts.

It was a day full of wonder, discovery and inspiration, reminding everyone that curiosity, creativity and courage can help shape the future.