We were thrilled to welcome Andy and the Odd Socks band to Banstead Prep School this morning. We were lucky enough to be one of only ten schools chosen for him to visit following our participation in the Odd Socks campaign to raise awareness and funds for the Anti-bully Alliance. Children and staff all wore odd socks to school, learnt the ‘Unique’ song and we even roped in a couple of our talented musicians to accompany our singing. Even the corridor is decorated with odd socks designed by the children stating how they are unique. This event was incorporated into our Kindness Week to focus positive behaviours which can help create an environment in which bullying is less likely to happen.
Miss Vicky Ellis, Headteacher explained that: ‘We have embraced ‘Odd Socks’ because it’s a great way of illustrating to the children our own ethos of celebrating diversity and allowing everyone the freedom to be themselves and express their individuality.
At Banstead Prep we believe in creating an environment where diversity is celebrated and the children feel confident to be the best version of themselves.
Raising awareness of bullying is important because no school can say that bullying doesn’t exist but if we can create an environment where children feel able to speak up if it happens to them or their friends then we can deal with the situation quickly.’
When we were talking about how Andy helps to promote anti-bullying, Gino in Year 5 said, “It makes people feel they can be themselves.”
“The odd socks is a great way of presenting the idea. It tells people that bullying isn’t right and if you are being bullied it’s good to know that being unique is a good thing.” Lottie Year 6
“It’s a great idea to wear odd socks for the day.” (Thomas, year 6) “It’s fun and makes you remember it.” (Rhian, Year 6)
“If we were all the same it would be a boring world, we’d all think the same things.” (Benji, Year 4)
Documents to download
- Epsom guardian page 3 1 February 2018(.pdf, 283.12 KB) – 70 download(s)
