Oxford school enjoys month celebrating a ‘World School’

Wood Farm Primary School in Headington enjoyed a packed month of activities marking Holi, Eid, Easter, and World Book Day as part of its ethos as a ‘World School’ that embraces inclusivity and celebrates difference.

Children took part in events and lessons designed not only to broaden cultural understanding, but also to celebrate what makes each person unique.

The month began with Holi, the Hindu festival of colour and spring, with children and staff dressed in their brightest clothes.

Classrooms and corridors were adorned with colourful flags, Bollywood music and dancing filled the hallways, and each child was given a daffodil to take home.

A local resident later told staff how a Wood Farm pupil had given her their flower on the bus journey home.

Eid was next, with pupils leading many of the activities by sharing personal reflections about the festival and helping guide discussions on themes such as generosity and gratitude.

Each class prepared food to share, and families were invited in to join the celebrations.

Pary Khurshed, a teaching assistant, said: “The Eid celebration was treated with genuine care and respect.

“As a Muslim member of staff, it meant so much to see every child and adult involved.

“It showed how diverse and strong our Wood Farm community is.”

Jemma Cadle, whose child Jimmy is in Year 1, said: “It’s wonderful that the children learn about and celebrate different cultures.

“Coming from a Traveller background, it’s PPA really important to us that our children appreciate all cultures.

“My sons have loved celebrating Eid, Holi and Easter this month and are already looking forward to more.”

Older pupils spoke about how much they enjoyed learning from each other.

Milena, aged 10, said: “I liked Eid, Holi and Easter because we could all be together, share food and learn how our friends celebrate.”

Easter was marked with creative crafts and lessons exploring the Christian meaning behind the festival.

Mariam, also 10, said the focus on truly listening to one another made the experience especially meaningful.

She said: “People were really listening to me.”

Children and staff were encouraged to wear special clothes for each festival, whether their favourite outfits or traditional dress.

Deputy headteacher Hannah Barton said: “These celebrations show what being a World School really means for us — a connected and beautifully diverse community built on kindness, generosity and shared learning.

“Seeing children, families and staff learning side by side has been incredibly special.”

The school described the month as one part of its wider commitment to inclusion, understanding, and celebrating the value of diversity.