Showcasing Waingels at Annual Open Events

On Thursday 4th October, Waingels held its annual Open Evening – inviting prospective parents and students to gain an insight into our school and discover the wide array of subjects we have to offer from the first day of Year 7. We had a record-breaking 501 student volunteers to proudly showcase our school by providing tours, supporting subject areas, or speaking during Mrs Humber’s Headteacher speech. From impressive demonstrations in Science, to “guess the flavour of the juice” in Food Tech, there were so many intriguing presentations and information points to highlight all the impressive departments and facilities Waingels has to offer.

As a Year 12 student, I supported the Personal Development department of Open Evening. Here, I explained to families the importance of developing transferable skills, and the fun of working with different people, whilst being able to take part in many different programmes Waingels offers. Throughout the student journey, we are very fortunate to have many Personal Development opportunities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Work Experience, the AAA programme and Microsoft Interview Day – which are all rewarding experiences when it comes to applying for post-18 options. The following week, Waingels conducted Open Mornings, which welcomed families to have a second look during the school day. It was a pleasure to volunteer and help tour families around our school. Open Mornings were incredibly helpful in supporting upcoming students to see what typical lessons look like, and an overview of how the school day is structured - aiding them to be more comfortable during their transition process.

Overall, Waingels’ Open Events were a huge success! We received lots of positive feedback from parents expressing “everyone was so friendly and enthusiastic,” and how prospective students “felt more reassured about the transition to big school.” Photos from the event can be viewed here.

Ben S- Year 12 Student