The octopus’s Lyfta debut
When Lyfta was just a twinkle in our founders’ eyes, they were on the hunt for a mascot to embody the spirit of our student platform. They envisioned a memorable, nurturing, and friendly character. And then, out of the blue, someone suggested the octopus!It was initially just a placeholder, but as time passed, the octopus grew on everyone. Its quirky charm and intelligence perfectly reflected Lyfta’s values, symbolising curiosity, exploration, and learning from all corners of the world.
Why an octopus?
Ever wondered about the origin of the word “octopus”? This fascinating creature’s name traces its roots back to ancient Greece. The term is a combination of “oktō,” meaning “eight,” and “pous,” meaning “foot.” If the ancient Greeks had used this word, the plural form would have been “octopodes.” While we commonly use “octopuses” today, these incredible beings deserve a closer look.
Octopuses are not just marine marvels; they're strategic problem-solvers with an uncanny ability to learn and adapt to new situations. Did you know they possess a unique neurological setup with nine brains – one central brain and eight smaller ones, one for each arm? This complex system allows them to exhibit remarkable intelligence and dexterity.
This friendly and brainy character resonated deeply with Lyfta’s core values. We believe that learning comes from everywhere. With its eight arms, the octopus symbolised the many diverse avenues we can explore to broaden our understanding of the world.
The octopus in space
Global exploration:
Take control of your students’ learning journeys with our variable speed feature. Whether you need to slow things down for deeper understanding, cruise at standard speed, or fast-forward through familiar territory, Lyfta enables teaching and learning at your ideal pace.
Out-of-this-world learning:
The combination of an octopus and a globe shows that Lyfta offers a unique and exciting learning experience beyond traditional classroom settings. It suggests that students can embark on virtual adventures and explore new ideas and concepts. The octopus symbolises the growth potential, learning, and discovery students can achieve through the platform.
Adaptability:
Octopuses are incredibly adaptable creatures. They can live in various environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deep ocean. This adaptability mirrors the diverse range of topics and experiences that Lyfta offers students in broadening their horizons and perceptions.
The octopus’s evolution
Over the years, our Lyfta octopus has grown and evolved. From a small button to a helpful guide, it has always been there to support students on their learning journey.
Now, it’s time to give our octopus a story and a name!
Join our story competition and submit your creative ideas. Imagine and share the octopus's story and suggest a name for it.
Let’s celebrate our octopus friend and give it a name reflecting its exploration and adventure spirit. The winning class will win a £50 book voucher for their school. A panel of Lyfta judges will select the winner based on creativity, imagination, and clarity. We’ll announce the winner on Friday, January 17th 2025, on our social media. The winner will also feature in our blog and newsletter.
This story competition offers rich learning opportunities
Decoding symbols and mascots: Students will explore how symbols and mascots can be powerful tools for representing values, ideas, and qualities.
Exploring names around the world: This activity delves into the significance of names and naming conventions across different cultures worldwide.
Related Lyfta learning resources for inspiration
You’ll need a Lyfta account to access this material. However, if you don’t have one, you can sign up for a 14-day free trial.
Click below to access the assembly lesson “My name is my identity”, inviting pupils to understand the significance of names in shaping our identities: https://teacher.lyfta.com/search-content/lyfta-lessons/previews/622
Click below to explore the immersive storyworld “My Name Is...”, in Indonesia. Invite pupils to discover naming traditions around the world and associated folklore: https://teacher.lyfta.com/search-content/storyworlds/preview/2661
Click below to dive deeper with the rich media article “What’s in a name?”, inviting pupils to consider the significance of their own names, alongside learning about different naming ceremonies and worldwide traditions: https://teacher.lyfta.com/search-content/articles/preview/2666
Join Lyfta’s octopus story competition!
How to participate:
- Dream up the octopus’ story: Let your imagination run wild and tell us your octopus story.
- Name our octo-friend: Give the octopus a fitting name.
- Share your entry before 23.59 on Tuesday 14th January 2025:
- X (Twitter): Post the story and octopus name, tag @LyftaEd and use the hashtag #LyftaOctopus.
- LinkedIn: Post the story and octopus name, tag @Lyfta Education and use the hashtag #LyftaOctopus.
- School submission: If your school doesn't have social media accounts, submit your entry via this form: https://forms.gle/FYyVXKrvpY6R3tyF9
Win for your school: All entries must be made by the school/teacher. Each entry will be eligible to win a £50 book voucher for the school. A panel of Lyfta judges will select the winner based on creativity, imagination, and clarity. We'll announce the winner on Friday, January 17th 2025, on our social media. The winner will also feature in our blog and newsletter. Need Inspiration? Dive into our content above for ideas and inspiration to bring the octopus story to life!
The competition is open only to schools in the UK - full T&Cs are here.
What is Lyfta?
Lyfta offers a groundbreaking solution for educators seeking to broaden their students' horizons, offering access to a range of people, places and perspectives that would otherwise be impossible. Imagine being able to teleport your entire class to a new destination every week, immersing them in the vibrant cultures and compelling stories of people from around the globe.
If you have not yet explored the platform, log in to access the resources now. If you don't yet have a Lyfta account, sign up for a free, no obligation trial.
