Outdoor Learning
Beyond the Classroom
Teaching children to be aware of and to respect the environment is not something that can be taught in a classroom.
At Springmead we recognise the need to be immersed in a location that stimulates every sense, to feel part of it and to wonder and be amazed by whatever you find.
These rich learning experiences occur every week through our Go Explore programme.
A large part of the programme is based on our wildlife area with its idyllic stream, trees and meadow and gives the children opportunities to explore different habitats, developing valuable insights into the fragile relationships between creatures and their environment.
Some of our activities this year have included: making elderflower cordial; lighting fires to keep warm; making mud pictures; denbuilding; tracking animals and hunting for minibeasts.
Throughout the whole school the children integrate outside learning with different areas of the curriculum making learning meaningful and memorable.
Bushcraft and Country Lore
For those who take the education of their children seriously and make it one of life’s priorities, the process of finding the right school is a very important one.
Having visited the school a few times in early 2003 and having spent time with the Taylors and Beardsleys we were confident to entrust our children to their care, in what was still a very new school. The school ethos was well thought out and purposeful.
The surroundings were peaceful and yet proactive with driven and caring school leaders determined to do the best for the children.
Over seven years our trust has been more than well founded. We are immensely proud of all three of our girls. Words fail to describe how thankful we are to all of the staff and Principals of Springmead.
To show our appreciation, we are pleased to be able to give something back to Springmead School, which fits entirely with the school’s philosophy of teaching beyond the classroom and ‘Go Explore’.
In order to inspire and truly connect children with nature we have devised a programme which combines bushcraft and country lore with the National Curriculum. Over the next academic year we will continue to work closely with the staff and older children to impart age old traditions, that can be passed down, that are rich in exciting learning opportunities. For more detailed information go to www.countrylore.co.uk
Mark and Lucy Hotson
Baby Explore
On a Thursday morning, whilst the main school children are swimming and the school is at its quietest, Shirley Offer and Charlotte Heald and have been welcoming the very youngest babies and children into the school for Baby Explore! Our very gentle sessions focus on music, movement, imaginary play and just getting together to socialise! It has been lovely to be able to share our beautiful learning environment with even younger children.
