PUPILS at Callington Community College explored stereotypes through role play during a ‘Day of Difference’ with the Barbican Theatre. Students from Year 8 who took part in the day had to divide into nine groups, each adopting a new cultural identity complete with belief system and practices. The groups then had to test out what they would do when an ecological disaster hit two of the groups – and refugees from the stricken communities arrived seeking help. Each group had to decide how many refugees it would take, and what the entry requirements would be. In the afternoon session, each group met with a visiting speaker who had had real personal experience of such a situation, and there was the chance for students to ask questions. ‘There was a tremendous energy and buzz among the Year 8 students throughout the whole day,’ said a school spokesperson. ‘Some of the issues raised, including themes of tolerance and diversity, will be continued through PSHEE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education), Citizenship and the wider curriculum.’ One young person who had taken part in the role play said that ‘the day was inspirational and eye-opening’, while other comments included: ‘You should think carefully about judging others based on appearances’ and ‘it was nice to learn all about different people.