On Friday 3 November 2023, Whitgift hosted the Lower First and First Form Cultural Day as a way of celebrating the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences of students at Whitgift.
This event was entirely organised by students in the Sixth Form, showcasing their leadership and passion for promoting cultural diversity. The day commenced with inspiring talks from older students within the School and Mr Al-Hasso (Second in Economics and Business) who explored what culture means to them and delved into various subtopics related to this important issue.
In the spirit of promoting cross-cultural awareness, students were divided into smaller groups where they had the opportunity to explore their own cultural heritage and learn about the backgrounds of their peers in greater detail. This interactive approach allowed students to appreciate the uniqueness of each culture while discovering the common threads that bind them together.
The afternoon session added an exciting element to the day as students were introduced to the Indian sport of Kabaddi, providing a hands-on experience in a different cultural tradition. Additionally, a culture and diversity-based quiz challenged students' knowledge and encouraged them to reflect on the importance of cultural awareness and unity.
Mr Haji (Head of First Form) commented “I’m so proud of the energy, expertise and vulnerability shown by our older students today in navigating these challenging yet important topics with their younger peers. I hope that, through more days like this, we are able to create a legacy of being even more open about celebrating who we are as individuals and as a truly culturally diverse community.”
Cultural Day at Whitgift was more than just an event; it was a reflection of the School's commitment to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive, and culturally aware community.