Sir Ira Simmons Secondary School brought creativity to its campus this week as students took part in the school’s first-ever Anything but a Bag Day, designed to help them unwind before exams begin.
The initiative, organised by the Student Council and fully backed by the school’s leadership, formed part of efforts to break the routine of traditional classroom instruction and give students a chance to express themselves.
Principal Martina Belizaire said the idea came directly from the students, who had been working hard throughout the term. She explained that they wanted an activity that would generate “some level of excitement and relaxation” before entering the exam period.
Belizaire noted that students had been feeling tense, especially after receiving their midterm exam results, and with only a few weeks before their final exams.
The council conducted a survey, and the response showed a strong desire for something fun and participatory. Once presented with the idea, Belizaire immediately supported it, telling the students’ leadership she was “in full support”, highlighting the importance of allowing learners to feel involved in school life and enjoy moments that differ from the usual delivery of content.
On the day, students arrived carrying school supplies in an impressive range of handmade creations. Belizaire said she was “so impressed” with the effort and skill.
The first-place winner built a fully functioning ATM from scratch that actually dispensed cash. Another student designed a realistic microwave, while one boy constructed a complete vanity set stocked with items typically found on a dresser.
The creativity continued with a student who used top undergarments as a book storage, another crafted a school bus, and one constructed a cereal box with a three-dimensional design. Belizaire described the creativity as “unmatched,” saying the activity clearly lifted the students’ spirits and gave them a much-needed mental break.
With exams beginning on Monday, November 17, the school will continue with Fun Sports and a road race scheduled for the following two days, rounding off what Belizaire called two “fun activities” ahead of the “serious matter” of exams.
This term has also seen another successful student-led activity: Afro Day, held as part of Creole Week. The Student Council encouraged learners to embrace and celebrate their natural hair, promoting pride in cultural identity and self-expression within the school environment.
I love this. I hope other secondary schools can follow suite. Very creative. Who would believe that a rice cooker, a laundry basket, a cooler even a bra. Wow. Bravo kids. Good luck in your exams.