The importance of individuality and a sense of belonging within the Chilton Primary School family have been celebrated in style by children.

An outdoor parade on the playing fields with family and friends watching on was the highlight of a term-long learning journey called Be Here, Be You, Belong.

The ongoing theme this year was ‘say it loud, say it proud’ which was chosen to help promote the children's confidence in talking about things they are passionate about and believe in.

Pupils used books such as Incredible You and Can I Join Your Gang? to explore what makes them special and unique; they also took part in a talent show to demonstrate their individual abilities and skills.

Exploring how to make each other feel safe and wanted was an important aspect of the learning journey, as was exploring the identity of the class group and creating artwork to illustrate what makes that special.

The big parade saw children dressed to express themselves – they created flags, signs and banners to express themselves as individuals, classes and as a school community.

It was an enthusiastic, energetic and colourful affirmation of the work that was delivered through the PSHE part of the curriculum and which touched all corners of school life.

Deputy Head of School Hannah Cheshire said: “We are proud of the way the Chilton community embraced the initiative. The focus was for the whole school to learn about individuality coupled with a very real sense of belonging.

“Teachers and pupils discussed the importance of being yourself without fear and to allow others to be themselves around you. This underpins and celebrates our school values of respect, equality, courage and kindness.

“The term-long initiative is just one part of the important work that we do to build children's self-respect and self-worth.”

*Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education focuses on strengthening the knowledge, skills, and connections to keep children healthy and safe and prepare them for life and work.

Chilton Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Junior School in Broadstairs and Ramsgate Arts Primary School.

*For more information contact Deputy Head of School Hannah Cheshire on 01843 597695