Natural phenomenon

Year 7 ventured just out of town towards Bransford where there is a rural shop and a network of trails which run along an old stretch of the Bromyard railway.

The site is surprisingly full of some fascinating natural wonders only a short drive from Worcester city.

After walking along the trails, we were treated to an old summer sound which is becoming more and more scarce.

The sound of the cuckoo was something that many of the pupils (and some of the staff) had never heard previously. In fact, the birdsong in the area was overwhelming. We counted double figures on the Merlin Birdsong identification app!

The class made their way down to the bank alongside the River Teme where they were greeted by an amazing sight. The caterpillar of the Ermine Moth spins a vast carpet of silk which can completely cover the willow tree whose leaves they feast on. This is a protective barrier against birds and other predators. Many of the class found it fascinating...

...some just wanted to skim stones.

These are the kinds of experiences that open their eyes to all the wonder and obscurity in the natural world...hopefully the fascination stays with them all in the years to come.