Off to Hogwarts: An end of year assembly

To affirm the excitement of ‘moving on’ and the joys of self-discovery.

by The Revd Alan M. Barker

Suitable for Whole School (Pri)

Aims

To affirm the excitement of ‘moving on’ and the joys of self-discovery.

Preparation and materials

• You may need a sound amplification system for the interviews.

Assembly

1. Begin by asking, Would anyone here like to become famous? Observe that famous people, apart from the worlds of entertainment and sport, also include artists and writers; designers and inventors; mathematicians, engineers and scientists; politicians and business leaders, whose names have become well known.
2. Invite some children to share their interests and ambitions. Briefly interview a cross-section of ages. Ask them, how would you like to become famous? Ensure that everyone who takes part is affirmed and encouraged.
3. Reflect that as we grow older we discover new skills and strengths. The children will know that to be true in the case of one famous fictional character. Provide some clues to help the children identify Harry Potter. For example, aged eleven this person was an orphan, from a rather unhappy home, who is told that he is going to a new school, and travels there by train, from Kings Cross Station, at Platform 9¾! 
4. Recall how Harry Potter discovered that he was famous among wizards, as ‘the boy who lived’. Harry’s new school was Hogwarts (School of Witchcraft and Wizardry). At Hogwarts, he discovered hidden powers and talents. His experiences were often scary, but through them Harry learned more about himself. And, through all of his adventures, Harry discovered the importance of   friendship and determination.
5. Reflect that this is the time when some will be thinking about moving to new schools. Observe that it’s natural to have some nerves, but that hopefully many will be really excited and looking forward to the change. Harry Potter learned that a new start brings the opportunity to discover the kind of person you really are. 
6. Wish everyone well particularly those who are moving on. Express the hope that wherever they continue their studies they will realize their ambitions. Conclude with this thought: How wonderful it will be if, in the future, we can say: ‘You know (name) – the famous (scientist, actor, sports personality, businesswoman)? She/He went to my school!’ Now that would be magic!
7. Church schools may wish to offer some words of encouragement from the Bible – a book that has helped people of all ages on their journey through life:
   
   Love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
   
   Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.
   
   Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12.10–12, 15–16, 21)

Time for reflection

One of the following dismissals could be used:

Go in peace!

May the Lord strengthen and protect you,

may the Lord encourage and inspire you,

may the Lord bless you and guide you,

today and always. 

Amen.

For all that has been – Thanks!

For all that shall be – Yes!

(Dag Hammarskjöld)

Song/music

‘One more step along the world I go’ (Come and Praise, 47)