This week we were leaf detectives in forest school. We each opened an envelope and identified their leaf using this leaf ID chart from the Woodland trust.

We talked about the size and different shapes of the leaves. The big envelope contained the horse chestnut leaf!

We then turned to being leaf artists and we printed with each of the leaves.

In September, each class enjoyed a Forest School team-building day with Mrs. Whittaker and their teachers. The common theme for all the activities was “Connecting with Nature.” We began our day by exploring the meaning of the word “Nature” before venturing outside to make bird feeders and to plant tomorrow’s oak trees and horse chestnut trees with acorns and conkers. 

We explored the natural resources around our school grounds to inspire our creativity, making decorated postcards and weaving with willow from our very own tree.

We ended the day gathered around the firepit, toasting marshmallows and sharing our favourite moments with each other.

Children learn best when they’re engaged and having fun, and our outdoors is the perfect classroom, building resilience, confidence, creativity and strengthening friendships along the way.

Year 1 have started their forest school journey. I want our children to understand that nature is the most precious and fascinating part of our world, and it is our responsibility to take care of it, protect it and enjoy it.

We started our session by finding out what is in Mrs Whittaker’s forest school bag.

We heard the robin birdsong, looked at a swan’s feather, and felt some prickly horse chestnuts!

We went on our own nature treasure hunt, and collected leaves, seeds, feathers, sticks. There are so many interesting things to collect at the start of autumn.