Star of the Week

It is no secret at Alexandra Park that Mr Brooke’s favourite part of the week is the celebratory Star of the Week assembly, followed by the tea party in the afternoon with each week’s ‘star’. During Monday’s assembly there will be a focus for the week, which links to our school values, learning behaviours, British values, and the rights of children. Collectively, these all focus on children being their best versions of themselves, and receiving the level of care and education they deserve. This then means children have goals they can work towards over the week so they know exactly how they can become ‘Star of the week’. Alternatively, our children will often do something amazing which demonstrates our values and is not the week’s particular focus.

During the assembly every Friday, every teacher will stand up and say exactly why they are so proud of their star of the week. This is great for the star, but equally, it is always a joy to see how well their classmates respond to hearing and seeing who has won. There are usually a lot of high 5s as they walk proudly to the front to receive their sticker and certificate! 

During the tea party, we try to make the children feel special with drinks and biscuits and talk about why they have received their award. They also get to bring a piece of work they are proud of to share. Another important aspect is that we use it as a pupil voice. This means that every child over the course of the year knows that they have had an opportunity to give feedback to the headteacher about their education; what they feel are strengths of our school and how they feel we can improve. One noticeable change which has come from these meetings are the improvements to the children’s lunchtimes and the outdoor provision provided. It really is an absolute privilege to spend this time with the children and listen to what  they have to say!

Peer Star of the Week

 Alongside our staff Star of the Week awards, children at Alexandra Park have the opportunity to nominate a classmate for our Peer Star of the Week. This gives children an important role in recognising and celebrating the positive contributions of others, helping to ensure that our school values of Care, Aspire and Achieve are recognised not only by adults, but also by the children themselves.

We encourage pupils to look beyond academic achievement and notice the everyday actions that make our school community such a special place. They are invited to identify classmates who demonstrate our school values and Learning Behaviours through their kindness, perseverance, teamwork, encouragement, curiosity or willingness to help others. We want children to understand that being a role model is not about being the best at something; it is about making thoughtful choices, showing respect and helping others to succeed.

The reasons children give for their nominations are often a particular highlight. Their comments provide a wonderful insight into what they notice and value in one another. Whether they recognise a friend who has helped someone feel included, a classmate who has shown determination with a challenging task or someone who has quietly made a difference, these nominations demonstrate the genuine care and appreciation that exists within our school.

Peer Star of the Week also supports our commitment to Voice, Choice and Belonging. Children have a meaningful voice in deciding who should be celebrated, exercise choice by recognising the qualities they admire and develop a stronger sense of belonging through the appreciation of their peers. The process encourages them to reflect on our values, understand what positive behaviour looks like in practice and recognise that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

Each nominated Peer Star of the Week is invited to join the headteacher for drinks and biscuits, providing a special opportunity to celebrate their achievement and hear more about their experiences. This recognition reinforces the importance of positive relationships, encourages children to continue demonstrating our values and helps build a culture in which kindness, effort and responsibility are noticed and celebrated.

Above all, Peer Star of the Week reminds us that children have a powerful role in shaping the culture of our school. By learning to recognise and celebrate the best in one another, they help create a community where everyone feels valued, encouraged and inspired to make a positive difference.