In light of recent terrorist attacks in London and Manchester, staff and students at Penryn College are taking part in the Great Get Together, a celebration to show support and unity within the community.

On Friday, students and staff have been invited to sit and have lunch together on the school field. They have been encouraged to bring something nice to share with someone else such as a cake, a family photo or a picnic blanket. The event is a chance to get to know others, and find out their likes, loves, fears and hopes.

“We will get together to send our message that we promote tolerance for everyone, regardless of background, sex and religion,” the invite reads.

The Great Get Together is a nationwide, neighbourhood celebration taking place over this coming weekend. It was inspired by MP Jo Cox, who was killed on June 16 last year.

The celebration follows a series of assemblies held at Penryn College led by assistant head Kirstie Oliver. The presentation was based on a quote from Jo Cox: "We are far more united and have far more in common than which divides us."

During the assemblies students were encouraged to tune in to how the events made them feel, whether that be confused, angry, anxious, upset, scared or sympathetic. They were reassured that these reactions were understandable, and that it was okay to feel anxious or emotional in the immediate aftermath of events like this. “Some people find it hard when they put themselves in the position of the families, and are reminded of loss," said Mrs Oliver. "I know it’s flippant to say it but the chances of you being caught up in a terror attack is really rare.”

Mrs Oliver then highlighted the incredible ways in which people responded at the time, running towards the danger to help others, showing extraordinary compassion to strangers. The assemblies ended on quotes from the deceased MP's husband Brendan Cox: “It's not about denying it's happened, but about responding with the very things they seek to destroy: happiness, unity, love and trust. We must not be divided. We must be tolerant.

“We find plenty of opportunities to talk about things we disagree with, but far too few occasions to celebrate the things that bring us together."