This term, we had the pleasure of welcoming Bow artist Miyuki Kasahara, who provided our pupils with an inspiring insight into the world of art and the power of imagination.

We launched a week-long, whole-school art project titled Sea Bird Navigators, where children explored the incredible journeys of seabirds, migration patterns, and the natural world through creative and engaging, hands-on activities.

Bow artist Miyuki explained, “The main goal of this expedition was to use art to showcase navigation and to make the children champions of it. Their school is based close to the Thames, which connects to the sea, and many of their ancestors arrived in this country by crossing it.”

83 of our pupils participated in this special workshop. Although each session lasted two hours, their focus never wavered as they produced beautiful artworks to decorate the school walls.

They explored the diverse characteristics of birds, particularly how beaks are used to request food. Many pupils began sketching different types of beaks, while others learned how to blend gradient colours with paint. They enthusiastically shared their new skills with one another, learning and improving as they progressed.

Year 3 pupil Paulina said, “I liked learning about the different birds, especially when we looked at pictures of them.”

All of the birds created by our pupils represent species currently under threat of extinction. Through this art, we hope to raise awareness of these remarkable creatures and the need to protect them.

Miyuki said, “I installed the children's artwork slightly away from the white wall to create more reflections and enhance the colours behind their pieces, forming a rainbow. I hope they notice this themselves and share that little secret with each other.”

The pupils also created a sculpture displayed in the centre of the school hall, viewable from all angles. It was inspired by a bird species with only 22 individuals left in the world.

Year 4 pupil Paulina said, “I liked the idea of having the bird on the lunch wall because it makes it feel alive.”

At Sir William Burrough, we are committed to providing valuable educational experiences like this for our pupils.

Opportunities such as these not only nurture creativity but also support academic growth and connect our pupils with professionals from a wide range of industries.

These experiences reflect just a few of the core values we strive to uphold as a school community. We remain dedicated to offering transformational education that gives our pupils a meaningful advantage in the years ahead.