Did you know that Picture News releases a new virtual assembly every week, focused on current events? These engaging assemblies bring the news to life, helping children connect with the world around them through age-appropriate, thought-provoking content. Each video explores a relevant topic, and is paired with questions designed to spark meaningful discussions in the classroom and at home. Our aim is to make the news accessible, educational, and engaging for all ages. With the updated structure of Picture News Virtual, there are now even more ways for schools to make the most of it – whether you're completely new to Picture News or looking to freshen up how you use it in your setting. Here are a few tips and ideas from the team: Great for cover or a change of pace Need a quick plan for supply or HLTA cover? Looking for a change of voice in the classroom? Our virtual assemblies are ready to go and just under 10 minutes each, ideal for keeping children engaged, while offering a moment of breathing space for staff. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708203266x168769379333947520/richtext_content.png Pause and share Make sure to pause the video at key moments to give children time to reflect and share their thoughts. You could even nominate someone to be in charge of stopping and starting the video, giving them ownership of the discussion. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744706331515x891637686387962200/richtext_content.png Listening comprehension practice Virtual assemblies are a great tool for developing listening skills. Encourage children to practise active listening by focusing closely on what's being said, then discussing key points afterwards. It’s a simple but effective way to build comprehension, boost vocabulary, and get children thinking more deeply about the topics being explored. Blueprint for student-led assemblies If your children are thinking about leading their own Picture News assemblies, the virtual assemblies can be a brilliant blueprint. They can watch how it’s delivered and use it to inspire their own style and structure. Some schools also have their own Picture News Pioneers – children who take the lead during assemblies, encouraging thoughtful conversation and helping link current news stories to big ideas like British values, diversity, and emotional wellbeing. It’s a brilliant way to build confidence, leadership, and critical thinking skills. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708056082x171330153749560600/richtext_content.jpeg //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708057705x886985832464026500/richtext_content.jpeg Recap previous packs Our virtual assemblies are a great way to revisit past topics and packs. All of our previous assemblies are available on YouTube, so it’s easy to go back and watch older videos. This can be ideal for recapping, revisiting past discussions, or linking current learning to previous themes. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708061593x659486375495454500/richtext_content.png Encourage children to get involved Children are always encouraged to send in their thoughts and completed challenges to the Picture News team. In many of our virtual assemblies, we include a challenge time or quiz, giving children the chance to actively take part. They can share their responses with us via social media or email, and it’s always a joy to hear what they think. It’s a great way to keep the conversation going beyond the session, and show that their voices really do matter. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708063087x406596699448881860/richtext_content.png //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708064950x856372010225958700/richtext_content.png Helpful for teachers too For teachers who are new to Picture News, the virtual assemblies can double up as a mini training tool, offering a clear example of how a Picture News session is structured and delivered. They can also be used as part of staff CPD during meetings, especially for newer members of staff or those unfamiliar with our approach. Subscribed schools can explore the follow-up ideas available in the Members Area, choosing from a range of extension activities to continue the learning after the assembly. If you’re not a subscribed Picture News school, you can request a free sample here. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1744708070355x912382741299775600/richtext_content.png Got your own tips for how you’ve used Picture News Virtual in school? We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch and share what’s worked in your classroom.
