Lenia Greenway, Headteacher at St Peter’s CofE Infant School, tells us how a neighbouring school’s generosity in funding their first year with SuperKind sparked a powerful journey of pupil-led social action. She explains that the platform now underpins their Courageous Advocacy work in line with the SIAMS framework.
What drew you to use SuperKind?
We were introduced to SuperKind by a neighbouring school, who generously funded our first-year subscription. Once we joined, it became clear that SuperKind’s mission strongly reflects our own school ethos and values. The platform empowers children, parents, and staff to take meaningful action on causes they care about. Its child-friendly website reinforces key messages delivered in school, helping pupils clearly see the positive impact of their actions. Importantly, it demonstrates that children of any age can make a real difference when they show courage and perseverance.
How was SuperKind implemented at St Peter's?
We introduced SuperKind to the children during a special Collective Worship, highlighting how their actions can make a meaningful difference both locally and globally. Together, we discussed charities the children were already familiar with and reflected on the reasons and ways we can support others through various fundraising activities. Some of these opportunities have been integrated into the curriculum—for example, in Geography, pupils have explored the socio-economic environments of different communities and learned how fundraising or clothing collections can positively impact those in need.
What are some examples of social actions that the Award has led you to take?
The award has encouraged our children to consider more thoughtful and impactful forms of social action beyond traditional activities like dressing up or having a mad hair day. They are now exploring the underlying issues affecting people both locally and globally and are carefully considering actions that can truly make a difference. For example, pupils have written persuasive letters to parents, encouraging the collection of items to send to families overseas at Christmas. Through this, they have reflected on the importance of providing both gifts and essential supplies to those in need.
What benefits have you seen to the students since starting your journey with SuperKind?
Since beginning our SuperKind journey, we have noticed many positive changes in our children. They are becoming more thoughtful and are learning to consider the wider impact of their actions, not just the immediate effects. Even though our pupils are only 4 to 7 years old, they are already reflecting on how their choices affect others. For instance, during Harvest, they recognised that while some people may not have enough food, donating food can also help others feel less lonely or isolated in their community. Similarly, when pupils donate their shoes at the end of term, they gain a deeper understanding of what it feels like not to have shoes, and how significant it is for children who have to walk to school barefoot.
How does SuperKind fit in with the CofE ethos/SIAMS?
SuperKind aligns seamlessly with the Christian ethos of our church school and has been instrumental in advancing our Courageous Advocacy journey, as highlighted in the SIAMS framework. We recognise that the concept of Courageous Advocacy can be challenging for infant-aged children to grasp. However, SuperKind has enabled us to broaden their understanding by encouraging them to think about the needs of others, both locally and globally.
As a result, we have embedded Courageous Advocacy into our school development plan. Each class now selects a project that they feel passionate about, thoroughly exploring its background and impact. This process empowers our pupils to actively stand up for others and take meaningful, positive action—demonstrating our commitment to living out our Christian values in practical ways.
Did you have any feedback from students, staff or parents?
Our entire school community has responded very positively to SuperKind and the meaningful actions and impacts it has inspired. Generosity is evident throughout the school, with parents regularly commenting on how thoughtful and considerate the children have become towards others. This is reflected in everyday situations—for example, children are eager to donate money or contribute food items from their family’s shopping delivery to support our Harvest collection.