Childwall Culture Day 2026 was a celebration of identity, heritage and shared experience across the school community. The idea was developed by students several years ago to deepen cultural understanding and strengthen belonging.

Culture Day is closely linked to the school’s commitment to cultural capital and personal development. The focus remains on widening understanding, valuing difference and ensuring every student sees their identity reflected in school life.

Across the day, traditional dress, music and visual displays created strong impact. Students explored cultural identity through workshops, performances and discussions led by staff, students and external contributors. Spoken word, storytelling and movement explored themes including heritage, migration and family history.

The day began with a flag parade and opening ceremony, featuring Amina Atiq and Blue performing poetry about culture and belonging. Students took part in Indian dance and drumming workshops.

Amina Atiq and Blue Saint hosted poetry workshops with Year 8 and 9 classes. The students produced some fantastic poetry of their own, with some performing in front of the class. Read their collective poem ‘Liverpool: Our City’ below.

At lunchtime, the canteen served Jollof Rice from West Africa. A local imam delivered Friday prayer, while Year 11 students offered henna tattoos to students, demonstrating leadership within the student body.

Special drinks and foods prepared by families were served at the World Food Festival after school including haggis, curry, black forest gateau and mince stuffed peppers. Visitors watched parents perform an Eritrean Coffee Ceremony, a cultural ritual representing hospitality, friendship, and respect, and enjoyed tasting Awel, Kal’ay, and Bereka rounds of coffee.

One student said, “It made school feel more connected. You learn things about people you’d never normally hear.”

A parent commented, “It’s powerful to see young people so proud of where they come from and willing to share it in such a respectful way. It brings families into the heart of school life.”

The Head of School Dr Thomas said, “Culture Day is a clear example of cultural capital in action. It builds understanding, strengthens relationships and gives students a platform to lead conversations that matter.”