All the classes start the day with a scheduled 15-minute Morning Pulse session once a week. Two teachers are responsible for planning and leading the session. Each term, students can suggest activities they would like to include. During the 15-minute sessions, students engage in a pulse-raising activity to music, led by one or two of the responsible teachers. At least one class teacher also participates. The teachers in charge have dedicated planning time once a week. That is important, to make scheduled Morning Pulse work well, committed staff and allocated time in the timetable are essential.
Students think it’s a great way to start the day and appreciate having time to talk to each other. Younger students (6–9 years) are easy to motivate and participate actively in most activities. Older students (10–12 years) can be harder to engage in all activities, so variety and student input are important. Giving students the chance to make suggestions and sometimes choose between different activities is a key.
Examples on activities:
