As we approach a different sort of festive period, the pupils at The Mulberry House School look ahead, towards life beyond the Covid-19 pandemic.
Encouraged by our Founder and initial Headteacher, Bethan Lewis-Powell, children between the ages of 4 and 7 years have reflected, not only on their own feelings but also on the feelings of others during this time. With these thoughts and feelings in mind, they have adapted the ancient Japanese custom of expressing gratitude and making wishes for a better future by writing on small wooden wishing plaques known as ema. These are traditionally displayed at places of worship or pilgrimage for others to read and find inspiration and hope.
Now, when visiting the gates of the school, you will see the children’s unique and beautifully creative art piece entitled ‘The Wishing Wall’.
At The Mulberry House School, we encourage children to reflect and debate current issues and to develop their own views about the world around them. Their words send a clear and inspirational message to us all that acts of kindness matter more than ever and are never forgotten. As part of our Mulberry Mindset, we teach children that empathy is an important skill.
From The Wishing Wall common themes emerged that shaped the children’s overall messages. Their emotional responses made a respectful plea for everyone to show kindness and to work together for a brighter future as we emerge from the pandemic.
One of our pupils, Zabel Garabedian hoped that, “People are still kind to each other after Covid.” Whilst Megan Barabas from Year 2 wished that, “The whole world could stay safe from Covid.”
The sense of absence and longing to see friends and relatives is both palpable and moving. Interestingly, children appear to value the actual presence of others in ways that advancing technologies, however sophisticated, cannot meet. They want to be physically close to those that matter to them most.
Shreyasi Arya from Year 2 also wrote, “After Covid, I wish to go to India to see my grandparents.” Whilst Sophia Shah from Year 1 wished that, she “Could give a hug to her grandparents.”
Visit The Wishing Wall yourself and you’ll understand that the children of The Mulberry House School are already proud ambassadors for such kindness.
