Spring has sprung...

 On return from the Easter fortnight, Years 3 and 4 were really surprised to see how things were taking root and growing in the Forest school.

A few degrees of warmth on the thermometer has really started to make the seeds they had planted burst into life. The unfortunate upshot of this new lease of life is that it offers the slugs and snails in the garden a fresh buffet of tasty leaves (they seem to find sunflowers irresistible!)

To try and swing the battle in our favour a visit was made to Coffee #1 for a few free bags of coffee grinds. These, when sprinkled liberally around the tunnel and over the plants have a pretty surprising effect of dissuading the annoying little critters. It can be a little demoralising for the pupils after waiting so long for their seeds to emerge, to then be greeted by the withered stalks and leaves having been munched by the pesky little molluscs.

Replanting and tending the garden by watering are both very important tasks to keep the plot healthy and maintained.

The classes have also been enjoying various arts and crafts. Weaving willow and making 'dreamcatchers' is a great way to practice fine motor dexterity and also patience.

The first steps outside for Year 4

For the last session of the Spring term Year 4 were offered the opportunity to venture off site to explore the Perrywood Nature reserve.

This is an important part of progression within the Outdoor Education provision that Riversides offer, to give the classes a chance to broaden their horizons. We believe Outdoor Education creates rich, hands‑on opportunities for our pupils to grow in ways that classroom learning alone can’t match. 

It strengthens problem‑solving skills by placing our learners in real environments where decisions have visible consequences, and it nurtures resilience as the students adapt to changing weather, terrain, and group dynamics. 

Being outside also deepens environmental awareness, helping our learners understand ecosystems through direct experience rather than abstraction. Socially, Outdoor Education encourages teamwork and communication, since many activities require cooperation and shared responsibility. 

Perhaps most importantly, it offers space for well being—fresh air, movement, and nature all support mental health and help our pupils feel more grounded and confident.