A lawn mower, beer crates, litter boxes, milk cans and even a complete Christmas tree. The students of Esdal College in Oosterhesselen left their backpacks at home today and took the opportunity to go all out. During the ‘backpack-free school day’, the most creative ‘school bags’ appeared in the corridors of the school.
The day was organized for the first time last year and it turned out to be such a success that there was a sequel this year. The backpack-free school day fits well into the week before the Christmas holidays, which at Esdal College are all about fun and fun activities. “This is great for the atmosphere in the school,” says teacher Ellen Eggens. “It’s a fun activity and this year it was fantastic to see what students come up with.”
The students were given plenty of room for creativity, although there were a few rules. School books and laptops had to be transported safely and the ‘bag’ had to be able to be taken up and down the stairs. The most beautiful creation was rewarded with a prize.
“We know that we have very creative students and that is reflected in all kinds of ways,” says Eggens. “And now also in the bags. It’s nice to draw attention to this in a different way and to put that creativity in the spotlight.”
The prize for the most creative solution went to Sam Letteboer from class 2A. He showed up with a decorated Christmas tree, complete with a wrapped coffin underneath. “Because it’s almost Christmas, I thought this would be fun,” says Sam. “It had to look like a gift under the tree.”
He had also thought about the practical side. “The chest opens at the back, with a door. This way I can safely take my books and laptop with me.” With the help of his parents, he successfully developed the idea. Sam won a movie ticket. “It will come in handy during the Christmas holidays. But tomorrow I will just take my school bag with me again. It is a bit heavy.”
According to Eggens, the day is about more than just fun. “Education is important, but so are atmosphere and safety. And that students enjoy coming to school.” Such activities help with that, she says.
Eggens: “Students look at each other differently and help each other. Someone even had a bicycle with a cart behind him and then they help each other up the stairs together. It’s a big madhouse, but in a good way. A fun, creative day.”