As part of Inspire Day 2025, we asked our group of journalists to visit some of the activities that were on offer during the day and write a blog about their favourites.
Marvellous Masks by Affan and Felix, Year 5
Everyone was buzzing with excitement at RGS Prep today no more so than the students in the 5B classroom. As part of Inspire Day they were learning about masks throughout ancient history. Everyone got a turn, wearing masks to show character and different emotions.
When asked what he liked about the masks, Theo told us “I love the great detail in some of the masks.” Madame Lanson said she enjoyed instructing this activity as she loved seeing the boys stepping into and becoming another character. Together they went on a journey through the history of masks from the detailed masks used in ancient Greek theatre to the death masks of the ancient Egyptians mummies used to show what the person looked like in life and the near expressionless Noh masks used by the Japanese in their theatres.
They all tried some masks on as well, acting out characters with a vast array of personalities, such as happy, timid, scared, unimpressed and confused in all kinds of settings and scenes. For example waking up on a new day, getting a package from a postman, being late to work and doing a job interview. All in all, that morning was a huge success with everyone enjoying themselves greatly.
Cup Cake Mayhem and Lego Madness by Will and Hugo, Year 3
Pupils were buzzing with excitement on Inspire Day 2025. There were so many activities available to enjoy. Each one full of amazement and inspiration. We joined the Cup Cake Mania and Lego activities.
When we arrived we found many pupils baking and stirring, having what can only be called, the time of their life. Some found egg cracking the hardest others said stirring was, but they all had a really fun time. The cupcakes were amazing :}
Lego was fantastic! it was lovely seeing the pupils create and collaborate to build their dream Lego city. They had amazing ideas about what to put in their city and their builds showed great imagination. The vehicles they created were fantastic as well.
Fantastical Freestyle Football: Inspire Day at RGS Prep by Jack, Arjun and Amudan, Year 4
These are some quotes from pupils we interviewed during our day.
‘This day can’t get any better!’
‘Whatever we do, I’m happy’
‘Such a variety’
Today the boys had the time of their life!
21 future footballers were gathered on the astro to be taught by the world leading freestyler: JAMIE Knight.
His goal: teach RGS Prep pupils how to learn extreme skills.
To ensure the best experience, they received size 3-4 footballs.
Learning how to catch the ball on their neck will help them to do headers.
To do this, they must master the posture; straight back, long neck, chin up and have a friend to throw the ball onto thier neck. This takes time so they must be patient and persevere.
This inspires them as, if they would like to be a world famous footballer when they are older, they must master these basic skills that have stood the test of time.
An inspirational day at RGS Prep by Charlie, Jeremiah, Alex and Luca, Year 6
1. Football on the astro
The football started off with Jamie Knight, the football guru, showing all the boys different skills. He also broke the record for ‘keepy uppies’ for 24 hours. One boy said “It’s so great to have so many successful athletes helping and teaching us quite a few things.” This was very inspirational and everybody was compelled to take part and do their best to be engaged. It was amazing and I think everyone had a good time. This was a great opportunity for boys to take part and be part of the community.
2. Animal petting with Pre Prep In the Sports Hall
This session started off with boys petting a variety of animals that were from exotic countries. All the young tots were engaged and loved every bit of the session. We interviewed a few young children who were very enthusiastic about the day. They were really happy and their smiles was infectious. It was really fun watching the Pre Prep boys enjoying the exposure to animals. Even the teachers took part. From anaconda to barn owl every bit of it was enjoyable.
3. The Powerlifting Paralympian
Liam McGarry, a British world champion, came to this school this Wednesday. It was truly inspirational. He told his story of how he overcame his spinal cord injury to be the true great he is today. Competing at the Paris Paralympics, he finished an amazing 5th place after being told by his doctor that he wouldn’t be able to compete. He really is a true great and inspires lots of people, not just those with spinal cord injuries. It really was a fantastic day.
Inspire Day: Paralympian Liam McGarry by William, Year 6, Veer, Year 5 and Toby, Year 4
Inspire Day 2025 has been a total delight. Children buzzing with excitement and every one very grateful to Miss Fenton. This morning we met Paralympic British power lifter Liam McGarry. There were 18 boys learning how to fulfil their dreams and enjoy sport. We were very lucky to interview Liam McGarry in person.
The picture on the left shows pupils from RGS Prep learning fitness and stamina from Liam McGarry. The picture on the right shows Liam after his 2024 Paris paralympic power lift of 232kg.