Writes Anne Davidson, Forest School Lead
Merging Technology with Nature in the Forest School
Blending technology with nature, Forest School learning took flight today. The boys have been learning about the lifecycle of birds, how they nest, how they survive, and how they adapt to the chill of an English winter.
Using a long-distance lens connected to an iPad, the boys were able to observe birds up close without disturbing them, enjoying a live view of everything from Ring-necked Parakeets to a fleeting Blue Tit and even the chance to spot birds not on their list, such as a Coot which quickly disappeared under the water.
Elsewhere in the woods, learning became hands-on. The boys set to work replicating how birds build nests, observing their handmade bird boxes and understanding what the birds get up to inside them.
Year 2’s Shape and Soil Exploration with Clay Moons in the Eco Garden
This week, our Year 2 pupils enjoyed a wonderful learning session in the school’s eco garden. As part of their topic on space, the children investigated different types of soil found around the school site.
The pupils carefully compared the soils, observing their texture, colour and how they felt in their hands. They discovered that soil could vary greatly depending on where it is found, helping them understand more about the natural world around them.
To link their learning with their space topic, the children then used clay to create their own “moons”. By manipulating the clay, they explored shape and texture while using their creativity, knowledge and fine motor skills to design their lunar surfaces.
It was a fantastic opportunity for the children to combine science, creativity and hands-on learning in our outdoor classroom.
Year 3 ‘Create’ History…Roman Style!
Year 3 enjoyed a creative and memorable session outdoors this week. As part of their history learning about the Romans, the children used clay to make their own Roman-style pinch pots. After carefully shaping the clay, they added decorative patterns and designs inspired by Roman pottery.
It was a beautiful sunny spring morning, and the warmer weather had brought the bumblebees out into the garden. During the session, the children noticed a bumblebee that appeared tired and low on energy. After learning that bees sometimes need nectar to regain strength, some pupils decided to use their spare clay to make small bowls for pollinators.
Once dried the children will fill the bowls with a little sugar water to help provide a drink for any distressed bees or butterflies that might need it. It was a lovely moment of curiosity, kindness and environmental awareness, showing how much the children care about the wildlife that shares our school grounds.
The session was a wonderful combination of history, creativity and nature, and the pupils should be very proud of their thoughtful actions.
Year 3 & 4 take part in the RSPB Big School Birdwatch
This week, our Year 3 and 4 Eco Club spent time in the eco garden planning where to place the bird boxes that we have recently purchased and made as part of the RSPB Big School Birdwatch. The children explored the garden and carefully discussed the best locations, thinking about where birds would feel safe and sheltered. It was wonderful to see the pupils working together and considering how we can make our school grounds even more welcoming for wildlife.
Eco Club’s Yoga Session in the Garden on World Wildlife Day
Earlier this week, on March 3rd, we also marked World Wildlife Day. This year’s theme highlights the important role that wild plants play in supporting human health and wellbeing. To celebrate, Eco Club took part in a session of wildlife yoga in the garden. It was a calm and enjoyable way to end the school day while spending time outdoors and appreciating the natural world around us.
Year 1 join Winnie the Pooh and Friends in the Forest School on World Book Day
Year 1 celebrated World Book Day with a magical visit from Winnie the Pooh and friends in our woody Forest School area. The children enjoyed a special outdoor storytelling experience while reading “Winnie the Pooh Goes to Forest School.” Pages from the story were hidden around the woodland either hanging from trees, tucked behind logs and hidden in the undergrowth. The children followed the story trail through the forest, discovering each page and helping Pooh on his search for his missing honey!
The adventure continued with a range of exciting activities inspired by Pooh and his friends. The children worked together using teamwork and problem-solving skills to help Eeyore rebuild his house. They also helped Rabbit sort and organise his collection of natural treasures, carefully grouping them and keeping everything in order.
Another challenge saw the children joining Piglet as he searched for the nature treasures, he had misplaced around the forest. Finally, they embraced some energetic risky play with Tigger, tackling a woodland obstacle course and developing their confidence, balance and resilience.
The day was a wonderful way to bring stories to life while learning outdoors. The activities encouraged creativity, teamwork and problem-solving, while supporting the children’s holistic development through exploration, movement and play in nature.
