Cultural

Celebrating Culture and Community in Style!

On Friday 18th July, Penwortham Girls’ came alive with colour and creativity as we celebrated our Culture and Community Day; a vibrant celebration of identity, diversity and togetherness. Students arrived dressed in clothing that reflected their interests, heritage, traditions or personal identity. From intricately embroidered outfits and national dress to meaningful accessories and sports jerseys, the corridors were a joyful display of global culture and pride. During form time, students worked collaboratively in groups to take on a creative challenge: building a structure out of art straws that represented an iconic landmark from around the world. The room buzzed with excitement and imagination as students engineered everything from the Blackpool Tower to Feathers ‘McStraw’! The winning teams were chosen based on creativity, teamwork, and how recognisable their final landmark was. It was a tough decision for the judges, given the incredible standard of entries! The day reached its peak in a dazzling fashion show, where students had the opportunity to showcase their outfits on the catwalk. Each participant walked with confidence and pride, accompanied by music that represented their culture. Students also shared the background behind their clothing; whether it was a traditional dress or a hobby they were passionate about. The atmosphere was electric, filled with cheering, music and a strong sense of community. Culture and Community Day reminded us of the richness of our school’s diversity and the importance of celebrating each other’s stories. It wasn’t just about what we wore, but the conversations, connections and respect that were shared throughout the day. We are so proud of everyone who participated; by walking the runway, building a landmark or simply showing up and celebrating others. Thank you for making Culture and Community Day a huge success!

Winning entries were:

7G – The Titanic 

8G – Big Ben and the Pepsi Max!

9P – Spud Bros. Tram / 9G – Blackpool Tower

10H – Feather’s ‘McStraw’

Mrs Alison Cattanach

Associate Assistant Headteacher

Kenya 2025

Sixteen of our incredible Year 10 students have just returned from the adventure of a lifetime – an unforgettable 10 day expedition to Kenya with ‘African Adventures’. Our journey began in the early hours of the morning, with a 1.30am meet at school before flying from Manchester to Nairobi via Paris. Tired but buzzing with excitement, we arrived in Kenya’s vibrant capital, ready for what would become a truly life-changing experience.

We kicked things off with a visit to Nairobi National Park, where the city skyline forms the surreal backdrop to wild lions, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, ostriches, buffalo, impalas and more. We also visited the David Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary, meeting rescued orphaned elephants and learning about the inspiring work being done to protect Kenya’s wildlife. Did you know that an elephant’s skin is actually quite prickly?

It was in Nakuru, during our five days volunteering at Ungana Academy, that hearts were truly touched. Our students threw themselves into every moment, teaching in classrooms, running lively sports sessions and even tiling an entire classroom from scratch! They bonded deeply with the pupils and staff, creating friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Our group didn’t just bring their time and energy, they brought generosity and compassion too. Thanks to the kindness of our wider community, we delivered vital donations including toothbrushes, crafts, stationary and sanitary products. In a particularly special moment, our students led a ‘Period Power’ lesson for girls in Grades 4 to 6, helping to break taboos and empower young women with knowledge and confidence. We were also thrilled to donate two projectors and photocopiers to support learning at Ungana Academy made possible by the amazing contributions of our sponsors.

A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our sponsors listed below for making a real and lasting difference…and that’s not all…thanks to the incredible generosity of Penwortham AFC, Ungana Academy now has a full home and away football kit! The students were absolutely thrilled and it’s safe to say those kits will be worn with pride.

After a breathtaking visit to Meningai Crater, we spent a morning in a traditional Maasai village, learning about their culture and way of life. Then it was on to a truly unforgettable two-day safari in the Maasai Mara, where we saw elephants, lions, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, crocodiles, giraffes and even cheetahs in the wild! The students’ sense of wonder was unforgettable. We wrapped up with a fabulous visit to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, before boarding our flight home via Amsterdam – tired, emotional, and forever changed.

This was more than a school trip. It was an experience that opened eyes, challenged hearts and inspired futures. We couldn’t be more proud of how our students conducted themselves, with kindness, resilience and an eagerness to learn from every moment.

Huge thank you to our sponsors:

• Penwortham AFC 
• Urban Kitchens
• Flue Direct Ltd
• Embroidery Unit 
• Roberts & Co Estate Agents
• Peter Booth Opticians
• Ref Stuff www.refscorer.com
• CBC Comprehensive Building Consultancy
• NWES 
• Riddell tps
• Store IT
• MenoTribe
• Rap conveyors
• Interbelt 
• Kerrigan Ltd 
• Braymale
• vulcanconveyors
• …and all the families, friends and supporters who donated and cheered us on from afar.

Mrs Honeyman

Associate Assistant Headteacher