Outdoor Learning Curriculum
Throughout the spring term and summer break the school's allotment area has been rejuvenated and further developed to enable some of the children who attend the school to have a hands on curriculum that includes horticulture and bio-diversity as an enhanced element. The journey began with the 2019 eco council evaluating the existing space and then designing an allotment area that included a greenhouse and planting beds for each year group. Through funding from the PTA and local council contributions, the development is now complete ready for a September launch. The children across all classes are now going to begin some planting during the warm autumn afternoons. The area will provide opportunities for children's sensory development along with opportunities to learn about responsibility, developing patience and social skills through horticulture.
Click here to view the video about our allotment
Outdoor Learning News
In Autumn term both Year 1 and Year 3 spent Monday afternoons enjoying the natural environment of our wonderful outdoor learning space The Burrow. The focus remained on providing enriching experiences that connected children with the natural world, encouraging appreciation for the environment around them. students engaged in natural art activities, exploring the artistic potential of the forest. From creating intricate leaf patterns to crafting sculptures from fallen branches, children learned to appreciate the beauty of nature while expressing their creativity in unique ways.
The art of den building continued to be a cornerstone activity, promoting teamwork, problem-solving, and basic engineering skills. As students collaborated to construct their outdoor shelters, they delved into the principles of architecture and experienced the satisfaction of creating functional structures using natural materials.
The mud kitchen became a hub of culinary exploration for the children and was a firm favourite. Beyond messy play, this activity involved sensory-rich experiences, encouraging children to experiment with textures, measurements, and the basics of outdoor cooking. The mud kitchen served as a dynamic space for hands-on learning and skill development.
