LO 1 Identifying own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

LO 2 Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

LO 5 Demonstrate the skills and recognise the benefits of working collaboratively

• what did I actually do?

Bring a part of circus club has given me the unique opportunity to be part of an activity that not only works on developing skills to put on shows for the school community but is also a local service that teaches circus skills to children from a local school and puts on shows in local nursing homes. This activity gave me the opportunity to try new things, challenge myself, work with new people and interact with the local community.

• what are/were my goals?

On joining Dragons Circus I was a little bit overwhelmed by the talent of the members and the vast array of different apparatus that we have. I decided that I wanted to throw myself into everything and try to learn a new skill. I have learnt how to “spin plates” and walk on a barrel but I have found juggling and unicycling much more difficult. Given the fact that I don’t own a unicycle, my progress has been somewhat slow. I also have very little hand-eye coordination so I have also struggled with juggling. Nonetheless, if I have learnt anything from circus it is to keep trying and attempt everything with positivity and optimism. By the time I graduate, after two years of being in circus club, I aim to be able to juggle and to unicycle – not necessarily at the same time. Right now we are currently preparing for the end of year show for the primary school.

• describe some of my interactions

The unique thing about dragons circus is that you get to work with a range of different people in the local community from 5-year-olds from a local school to 95-year-olds from a local nursing home. Interacting with the local community has been a thoroughly rewarding experience. The most amazing thing about circus is it can bring joy to everyone, regardless of their age and can connect people despite a language divide or any other barrier. I advise everyone who wants to get involved in both the school community and the local community to join circus as it not only can spread happiness to those you work with but it has often been the highlight of my week.