School Event Spotlight
A lightweight, recurring process where students and staff propose, plan and run short, low-cost events that celebrate learning, talents and small successes. Regular spotlights (weekly/monthly) create moments of joy, increase participation and make school life visibly enjoyable.
Purpose
To increase positive emotions and motivation at school by creating frequent, student-involved celebrations. Small, well-run events boost morale, strengthen community ties and make being at school a more positive experience for everyone.
Use and Learning Outcomes
- 1. Increases students’ enjoyment and positive associations with school.
- 2. Encourages creativity and student leadership in event planning.
- 3. Builds community through shared, joyful experiences.
- 4. Strengthens cross-grade interaction and informal mentoring.
- 5. Improves school climate and student engagement.
Wellbeing References
Details & Preparation
Room Requirements
A larger space such as the school hall, gym, courtyard, or another common area where many students can gather and participate. The space should allow different small activity stations or performances. Basic equipment such as tables, chairs, and a sound system or microphone may be useful for announcements or presentations. Outdoor space can also be used if weather conditions allow.
Time for preparation
120 minutes
Preparation
Tasks before the activity:
• Announce the upcoming school event and invite students to suggest ideas or activities.
• Collect proposals using Event Idea Cards or a simple digital form.
• Select and organise the activities together with student teams and teachers.
• Reserve the event space (school hall, courtyard, gym, etc.).
• Prepare a simple event schedule and assign responsibilities (e.g., set-up, moderation, clean-up).
• Prepare necessary materials for the planned activities (tables, posters, decorations, etc.).
• Inform students and staff about the event time and programme.
Principles for success:
• Encourage strong student participation and leadership in planning the event.
• Keep the atmosphere inclusive, positive, and fun for everyone.
• Ensure the event is well organised but flexible, allowing creativity.
• Provide clear roles and responsibilities for students and teachers.
• Celebrate participation and achievements to strengthen a joyful school culture.
2–3 hours of preparation, ideally spread over several days with student planning teams
Materials
• Printed Event Idea Card handout (for collecting student ideas for activities)
• Printed Event Feedback Card handout (for participants to reflect on the event)
• Pens or markers
• Flipchart, whiteboard, or board for displaying the event programme
• Sticky notes or cards for collecting additional ideas
• Tables and chairs for activity stations
• Decorations or simple materials for activities (e.g., paper, colours, posters)
• Optional: microphone, speaker, or projector for announcements or presentations
Sequence of Steps
Introduction
10 minutesSuggested introduction:
"Today we will take part in a special school event where we can celebrate our community, talents and interests. School events are important because they bring people together and create positive experiences. When we enjoy activities together, we feel more connected and proud to be part of our school. During this event, you will have the opportunity to participate in different activities, support your classmates, and simply enjoy being together."
The facilitator briefly explains the programme and encourages students to participate actively, respect each other and contribute to a friendly and positive atmosphere.
Presenting and organising activities
20 minutesThe facilitator writes the proposed activities on the board or flipchart and helps organise them into a simple event programme. Students who suggested an activity can volunteer to help organise or run the station.
This step encourages student participation and ownership, showing that their ideas can contribute to enjoyable school events.
Participation in event activities
30-40 minutesParticipants are encouraged to try different activities, interact with classmates, and enjoy the shared experience. The facilitator ensures that the atmosphere remains positive, inclusive, and respectful so that everyone can participate comfortably and have fun.
Reflection and feedback
10 minutesSuggested questions for reflection:
• Which activity did you enjoy the most and why?
• How did this event make you feel about being part of our school?
• What ideas do you have for future school events?
Students can share their thoughts verbally or write them on Event Feedback Cards. This helps the school collect ideas for future events and ensures that students feel their opinions are valued.
Reflection & Tips
Reflection
After the event, participants reflect briefly on their experience either in a short group discussion or by completing Event Feedback Cards.
Suggested reflection questions:
• Which activity did you enjoy the most during the event?
• How did the event make you feel about being part of this school?
• Did you discover something new about your classmates or school community?
• What kind of school event would you like to see in the future?
As a quick reflection method, participants can also show their experience using a “mood scale” (e.g., thumbs up / sideways / down) to indicate how much they enjoyed the event. This helps organisers understand how the event contributed to a positive and joyful school atmosphere.
Tips for Implementation
What supports the learning process / What the facilitator should pay attention to:
• Encourage active student participation in planning and organizing the event.
• Ensure that activities are inclusive and accessible so that all students can participate.
• Maintain a positive and respectful atmosphere during the event.
• Keep the event well structured and clearly organized so participants know where to go and what to do.
• Celebrate students’ contributions and efforts to strengthen motivation and enjoyment.
Other possible uses of the exercise:
• A short version (30–45 minutes) can be organized as a small class event or celebration.
• A longer version (half-day or project day) can include multiple activity stations, performances, or workshops.
• The method can also be used during school festivals, project weeks, or end-of-term celebrations.
Cross-references to other exercises:
• Student Voice Forum (students suggest and vote on ideas for school events)
• Open & Support Circle (strengthening relationships and belonging in the school community)
• Values Co-Creation Lab (students contribute to shaping school culture and shared values)
