Students from Ivan Dawson Primary School chant a cheer for their house during the march in Cane Garden Bay to kick off the school’s annual Commonwealth Sports Day, which included Commonwealth-focused readings and presentations, races and other competitions. Photo: CHRYSTALL KANYUCK

It used to be called Empire Day, and people lined up to get a bun

and some fruit punch, said Ivan Dawson Primary School Principal Helen Penn. Since then, a lot has changed, but from the “empire” to the Commonwealth, the holiday has always been focused on children, Ms. Penn said.

That’s part of why the sports – traditional races, tug-of-war competitions and others – have always been included in the celebrations, Ms. Penn said.

The 100 students enrolled at the school had been preparing for the presentation for weeks, she said, adding that the programme, which included a procession of flags from around the Commonwealth and a short skit about Commonwealth Day, will help the students become better global citizens.

“They might have some travels, go to see the world,” Ms. Penn said. “It’s a global world.”

 

See the March 15, 2012 edition for full coverage.

 

{fcomment}