Ofsted highlighted cultural capital in 2019 as an essential aspect of a child’s personal development. Based on Bourdieu’s studies in social mobility, it is seen in education as a way of creating well-rounded citizens of the future.
Schools have since developed unique ways of offering enrichment activities to support their pupils in growing cultural capital, but now with a cost of living crisis, it seems harder for schools to find room in their budgets for these extracurricular experiences.
Enrichment Activities for Cultural Capital
During the pandemic, many enrichment opportunities were cancelled and subsequently, they were not restored due to the pressure on school budgets, with sky-high energy prices proving particularly challenging.
Of course, the cost of living crisis also impacts the opportunities available for children outside of school too, as families face high inflation, enormous energy bills and increased food costs.
Schools mustn’t neglect cultural capital. Indeed, in challenging times, it is even more essential for pupils’ well-being.
Academic achievement remains essential but critical thinking, developing a broad knowledge and being exposed to a wide variety of experiences should be promoted as an integral part of the curriculum.
How can schools access enriching experiences that are cost-effective?
One way to save costs is to exchange a costly school trip for digital experiences.
School trips involve expensive coach hire, insurance and entrance fees. These expenses have increased dramatically with inflation.
Instead, you can choose a platform such as Lyfta, which, as well as being far cheaper, will also require far less organisation and risk assessments.
Lyfta’s digital platform offers cultural experiences and different perspectives in many areas. Currently, you can find a live lesson relating to the Qatar World Cup, which is a sure winner to engage your class.
Online Resources to Increase Pupil Engagement
Using a digital platform to provide enrichment is far more than a box-ticking exercise. As well as providing accessible and affordable experiences, it will appeal to students who, after all, are already digital natives.
How about a virtual trip to the theatre? Not an end-of-term panto but a trip to the opera or the ballet.
It is possible to visit Helsinki to see a live classical performance which would be perfect as an end-of-term reward. Your experience is enhanced by behind-the-scenes technology to enable learning about how the staging, music and performers are put together.
The wonderful bonus of going digital is the ability to connect across the globe, thus providing a far more comprehensive range of experiences for students. Many experiences are presented as stories with a real human aspect, helping children relate to other cultures.
Teachers will appreciate that planning includes ready-made lesson plans, assembly plans and a wide range of themes from sustainability to diversity. The virtual platform offers plenty of opportunities for blended learning.
You can visit the Lyfta website for a free trial to get you started.