Following the Autumn Pupil Survey, Maundene identified lower-than-expected scores in the ‘School Enjoyment’ driver. Headteacher Jo Capes took a closer look and, through conversations with staff and pupils, uncovered a clear theme: many children found Monday mornings particularly difficult after the weekend.

In response, the team introduced Magic Monday — a simple but powerful shift in the school’s routine. Rather than beginning the week with typical early morning work, pupils now start their Mondays with high-energy music, fun physical activities like PE games and Dough Disco, and a chance to share their own ideas for joyful starts to the day. Staff quickly embraced the idea, implementing it just days after it was raised in a Friday briefing.

The results have been impressive. By Spring, the school saw a 1.6-point rise in their ‘School Enjoyment’ driver, and the average pupil response to "I look forward to going to school on Monday." jumped from 6.6 to 8.8 out of 10.

Magic Monday has created a more positive atmosphere, reduced reluctance to attend on Mondays, and helped set a vibrant tone for the week. As Jo puts it, the initiative has added “a little extra sparkle” to school life and pupils are loving it.