21 November 2024
On Thursday 14th November, Exceed Learning Partnership hosted their annual Social Justice Performance Evening at Hall Cross Academy Upper School, showcasing the creativity and passion of its pupils as they tackled topics such as environmental sustainability, equality, and community advocacy, using various mediums like performances, presentations, and digital media.
This event marked the culmination of the Trust’s Social Justice Project, an initiative empowering pupils from across all of our academies to explore critical societal issues and express their learning through artistic and innovative presentations. Carr Lodge Academy began the evening with their Caribbean message of hope, that children all around the world will have access to an education that will unlock their full potential.
Hall Cross Academy performed both Drama and Dance pieces - focusing on breaking down barriers and misconceptions in society. Edlington Victoria Academy chose to focus on children’s rights whilst Sandringham based their performance around climate change and how small changes can make big impacts. Sheep Dip Lane Academy focused on the prominent subject of mental health and the impact of bullying on young people. Willow Primary School’s performance told the story of the Windrush generation and the resilience and determination of those who faced the recent injustices of the Windrush scandal.
Bentley High Street looked back at other important moments in history, as they explored the theme of Gender Equality from the Suffragette movement right through until Nazi Germany. Rosedale Primary School chose to celebrate individual differences - exploring the freedom and bravery that it takes to be yourself and live openly without discrimination. Hill Top Academy then closed the show with their anti-bullying performance - using a variety of mediums, such as poetry and dance, to inspire a kinder world for all of us.
Families, Governors, and a range of dignitaries such as Mayor Ros Jones and Councillor Sue Farmer were in attendance, commending the young participants for their eloquence and depth of understanding.
CEO, Beryce Nixon OBE spoke highly of the event, saying ‘Our pupils showed incredible insight and great enthusiasm when performing these pieces that touched on such pertinent issues. Evenings like this are about the future and allowing our pupils to have the conviction, confidence and determination to speak out about a world in which they want to live”.
The event emphasised Exceed Learning Partnership’s commitment to embedding values of equality, humility, and accountability among its students. The evening not only celebrated the hard work of our young people but also highlighted how education can extend beyond academics, influencing real-world impact and fostering informed, active citizenship.