This article delves into how students from St John Plessington Catholic College and St Mary’s Catholic College, both part of the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT) and the Creativity Collaborative C Change, took the lead in shaping their own educational experiences and organised a groundbreaking conference that exemplified their creative prowess.
C Change provided a unique platform for students to explore and develop creative thinking skills across various subjects. Traditionally, creativity is often confined to the arts, but the students at St John Plessington and St Mary’s quickly learned that creativity transcends this boundary, extending into every aspect of their education. One student reflected on this realisation, stating, "I didn't really see how maths or science would link to creativity. But now I can see how it's used in everything."
Through their involvement in the Creativity Collaborative, students were not just passive recipients of knowledge; they became active participants in their educational journey. They were encouraged to question, explore, and challenge the status quo, leading to a deeper understanding of how creativity could be woven into all areas of learning. This shift in perspective was significant, as it empowered students to see themselves as capable of making meaningful contributions to their education.
Taking the lead: organising a student-driven conference
The pinnacle of the students’ involvement came when they were tasked with organising a conference at St John Plessington Catholic College in Bebington. This event was unlike any other, as it was entirely planned and managed by the students themselves, with no input from teachers or staff. The responsibility fell on the shoulders of the C Change student learning ambassadors, who meticulously planned every detail, from the agenda to the logistics.
The conference brought together a total of 60 students from St John Plessington and St Mary’s, creating a space for open dialogue and shared experiences. The learning ambassadors shared their personal journeys and the reasons why they became part of C Change. Their stories were not just about their involvement in the programme but also about their growth as individuals who learned to embrace creativity in all its forms.
One of the most powerful aspects of the conference was the opportunity it gave students to voice their opinions and feel heard. As one student described, "I felt heard, not just like I had to listen and write down notes. I felt like I actually got to talk to these people who have been in the industry and are successful." This sense of empowerment was echoed throughout the event, as students realised that their voices mattered and that they could influence the direction of their education.
Shaping the future of education
The impact of the Creativity Collaborative and the conference extended far beyond the event itself. It planted the seeds for a new approach to education, one where students are not just passive learners but active participants in shaping their own experiences. By taking the lead in organising the conference, the students demonstrated that they are more than capable of driving change and fostering creativity within the curriculum.
This experience also highlighted the importance of providing students with opportunities to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking. One student remarked on the importance of persistence in problem-solving, saying, "Before, if I got a difficult question, I would just close my book. But now... I stick to it, ask my friends, and try different methods until I get it right." This shift in mindset is crucial for preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
A legacy of creativity and leadership
The conference was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of student-led initiatives and the transformative impact of creativity in education. The students through their involvement in the Creativity Collaborative, have set a new standard for what it means to be active participants in their education.
As these young people move forward, they carry with them the lessons learned from their journey—lessons of leadership, creativity, and the importance of having a voice in shaping their future. Their work with the Creativity Collaborative will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations to embrace creativity and take control of their learning.
In conclusion, the Creativity Collaborative has not only enriched the curriculum at HFCMAT but has also empowered students to take the lead in their educational journey, demonstrating that with creativity, determination, and a platform to be heard, students can achieve extraordinary things.