Year 5 students across all 13 ���ϸ������� primary schools participated in their annual News Day. The event allows pupils to experience the world of work and encourages them to aspire high for their futures. 

Ahead of the big day, pupils plan questions and interview a celebrity guest. The day began with a briefing from BBC Look North's Amy Garcia, who gave guidance on what makes a good news story and the different careers available in media. They then worked collaboratively in teams to research, draft, and edit articles for an academy newspaper which was printed and published at the end of the day.

In the past, students have interviewed celebrities including Ainsley Harriott, Joe Wicks and Alastair Brownlee. This year, they interviewed Olympic diver, Lois Toulson.

The children came up with their own interview questions, which covered a wide range of topics. When asked how Lois deals with disappointment, she said: “It can feel like a knockback, but I think you learn the most when that happens. [If I don't make a final], I'll sit back and think about what I could've done differently. Then I know the things I need to work on so it doesn't happen again and I can progress further.”

The youngsters were also interested in how Lois stays focused during dives and to know of any plans Lois has in place for when she decides to retire from diving. 

Reflecting on the day, children gave feedback on their experiences. One student commented:

“It was really fun to interview people about the jobs they do and to experience being a reporter, as well as feeling the pressures of meeting deadlines.”

Another added:

“I quite enjoyed writing my own article and then working in collaboration with my group to merge our interviews together.”

A third said:

“I really enjoyed the interview with Lois Toulson and being able to ask her questions and get tips from her on how to motivate yourself, and work hard to achieve your goals.”

Ben McGarry, Director of English at ���ϸ������� Grange Academies Trust, said:

“News Day is a fantastic opportunity for pupils. As well as practising their journalistic writing, they learn to collaborate, problem-solve, and work to tight deadlines. Many pupils come away from the experience with renewed ambitions and aspirations for the future. 

“It is an annual highlight to play a part in facilitating the event. Thank you to all our teachers, and the celebrities who kindly give their time to work with and inspire our pupils.”

The annual News Day fits into the wider primary curriculum as part of the ���ϸ������� Primary Diploma. The programme runs from early years through to Year 6, focusing on different areas of personal development. Its rich set of experiences - including a Shakespeare Festival, Enterprise Challenge and News Day - provide the opportunity for pupils to rehearse, practice and apply skills from across the curriculum to real-life contexts. It develops pupils' understanding and experience of how to become responsible, respectful and active citizens who can play their part and become actively involved in public life as adults.