Following four years of very successful similar events, the day was an opportunity for pupils from Year 11 and 12 to work in teams of mixed age and nationality. With the programme focusing on creative thinking, problem-solving, communication and team-building, the day promised to allow pupils to learn new skills away from the classroom.
The ‘Crime Squad’ course saw pupils working in teams as forensic detectives to solve major crimes including a murder, finding a stolen baby gorilla, disposing of a bomb and a cops and robbers exercise. Each task was designed to develop the pupils’ skills in problem solving, teamwork and leadership.
Working in their teams, the pupils used clues and techniques such as DNA evidence, grid reference, codes and witness statement to solve the crime. The pupils had to think critically and analytically throughout the day while also increasing their confidence, developing key transferable skills and making new friends.
Director of Wiser Words, Emily Wiser commented after the course: “For young people to get actively involved, try out new skills, voice their opinions, share ideas or dare to question and challenge, they need to be in an environment where they feel it’s ok to do this. That’s why helping students to get to know each other, we believe, has a direct impact on their academic success. They learn more if they feel happy, confident and accepted amongst their peers.”
It’s crucial that today’s young people develop transferable skills as they face stiff competition for university places and an increasingly competitive job market. Rydal Penrhos School regularly holds enrichment days to ensure that pupils learn to become independent learners who are able to respond to situations with initiative, responsibility and adaptability.