This year we supported World Book Day on Friday 3 March by reading a five part story at the beginning of each lesson throughout the day.  The chosen text was a short story from the book ‘Being an Ally’, a recommended text for our readers. Students found the story engaging, thought provoking and it led to further conversations between students and with teachers. The book can be purchased with a World Book Day book token from most book stores.

Student reflections

Clyde – I think that it is a good moral to stand up to racism by helping others who need it and by becoming an ally. When they start their own website I think it is inspirational because it shows that by sharing stories we can speak out and not be afraid. It shows us how people can feel when they are belittled and how by helping each other we make each other feel better and supported. 

Erin – It was a good story, it teaches you about not just sitting there, but instead using your voice to speak up for others. It teaches us that racism still exists and it can be subtle but it hasn’t disappeared. 

D – I thought it was interesting to read about something that happens in real life. it wouldn’t be something that I would normally read, as it is not the same genre. You may not hear much about racism, but it is clear that it still exists, and it changes the way I have thought.

Leo – I thought it was very interesting and it is a real life situation that could happen at any time and this makes it relatable. 

Oliver – I thought it was a good short story and it shows that a few words can make a big difference to a situation. 

Deacon – I agree with the message that racism is harmful but the story was a bit short.  We hear about racism regularly but there seems to be no better ending to the story ever. 

Stefan – It was a good book, and it teaches about things that I  know happen but I haven’t experienced.  It gave me a new insight on a really important issue. 

Harry – Showed me things I might not have noticed before about the way I speak to others. 

Chloe – It is a good thing to talk about and I can relate to it. It makes me feel less alone. 

On Wednesday 1 March, 60 students from Carisbrooke College, Medina College and The Island VI Form went to see a production of ‘Freshwater Five’ at the Quay Arts in Newport.

The play told the story of five fishermen from The Isle of Wight who were convicted of drug smuggling in 2011. The five men in question have always pleaded their innocence in the face of contradictory evidence. 

It was an excellent piece of storytelling, highly creative and very well acted. It should provide our students with lots of ideas about how to create and develop their own productions in the future.