What began as an ordinary morning in the lecture theatre quickly turned into something far more unexpected for Second Form pupils.
As Mrs Yates outlined plans for PRE in the Third Form, the session was dramatically interrupted by a breaking news bulletin. The newsreader, revealed to be Fifth Form pupil Oliver D., announced that a deadly zombie outbreak had struck Kimbolton High Street, leaving those inside the theatre as the last survivors.
Moments later, the lecture theatre was overrun by Lower Sixth ‘zombies’. Calm was eventually restored by Mr Dickens, but the premise was clear: the world as we knew it had changed and it was now up to Second Form to rebuild civilisation.
The immersive scenario formed part of Second Form’s integrated learning day, which took place on 18 November. Integrated learning days give pupils the opportunity to step away from their usual timetable and explore how different subjects connect through a shared theme. The approach encourages creativity, teamwork and critical thinking, while helping pupils apply their learning to real-world situations.
Working in groups, pupils were tasked with designing their own societies from the ground up. They explored political systems, ideologies and ethical frameworks, debated resource allocation and considered the values that would underpin their new civilisations. Supported by their ‘tame’ Lower Sixth zombie helpers, the morning was filled with lively discussion, thoughtful debate and imaginative ideas.
Each group developed a group name, form of government, core values and national identity. To conclude the morning, pupils created a flag and national anthem for their society before presenting their vision to the rest of the year.
Second Form pupils spoke enthusiastically about the experience. Ashby said, “It was really creative and fun. It showed us the pressure if we had to make a new society.” Ishika added, “I really enjoyed integrated learning day because I liked how creative it was and it was nice to do something other than school work.”
The PRE Department were impressed by the depth of thought, collaboration and enthusiasm shown throughout the day. Integrated learning day provided pupils with the opportunity to think creatively, work together and apply their learning in a challenging and imaginative context, making it a memorable and engaging experience for all involved.
