Project Friday

What is Project Friday?

Project Friday is our whole school initiative designed to give children meaningful, creative learning experiences that broaden and deepen their understanding of the world around them. Each project focuses on key curriculum areas that we believe are essential for our pupils, providing breadth, depth, and purpose beyond the traditional timetable.

Launched in September 2018, Project Friday has become a valued and well-established part of life at Guilsborough C of E Primary School. Taking place every Friday afternoon, it allows children time to explore, create, collaborate, and think differently through enriching, hands-on experiences.

Project Friday is a bespoke addition to our curriculum, designed specifically for the children and community of our school.

How projects are designed

Every Project Friday experience is carefully planned around:

• Our curriculum priorities

• The needs and interests of our children

• National events and community links

• Staff expertise, interests, and passions

Projects make full use of our school site, local community, and the strengths of our staff team. This helps ensure every experience feels personal, purposeful, and rooted in our school values.

Projects usually run for half a term and children may work:

• In class groups

• Across phases

• In mixed-age teams

• In house groups

This flexible approach encourages teamwork, leadership, confidence, and a strong sense of community across the school.

Our values in action

Project Friday is underpinned by the values we promote throughout school life. Through these experiences, children learn to:

• Work collaboratively

• Support and encourage one another

• Develop confidence and wellbeing

• Think creatively

• Take ownership of their learning

By giving children opportunities to contribute, explore ideas, and work together in different ways, Project Friday helps create a vibrant school community where every child has a voice and every contribution matters.

Examples of past projects

Over the years, children have explored a wide range of exciting and meaningful themes, including:

• World War I Centenary and Remembrance

• Christian and faith symbols

• Mental health and wellbeing

• Art movements

• Love Our Planet

• Inspirational people and role models

• Spirituality

• Oracy and performance poetry

• Singing and music

• Diversity and inclusion

• Sustainability

• Fundraising and community action

Each project brings new opportunities for creativity, curiosity, discussion, and memorable learning experiences.

What our community says

Here are just some of the comments shared by pupils, parents, and staff about Project Friday:

“Project Friday is exciting and different every week.”

“Our children are learning new skills and gaining a better understanding of a range of topics.”

“Staff know all children as individuals and can talk to parents confidently about Project Friday.”

“Children share experiences with their siblings.”

“Learning is exciting through opportunities and hands-on experiences.”

“It helps children appreciate the strength of teamwork.”

“It provides wider and richer curriculum experiences for all pupils.”