The year 1 classes spent a good hour each in the Paragon grounds, exploring, den building and enjoying a campfire. Firstly, Mrs Williams' class walked up to the beech woods, then back through the secret gate onto the zigzag track, which descends into the far end of the grounds near the potential outside classroom. We then divided into 3 groups to make small shelters with tarps and ropes. This was great fun; the children were inventive in their approach and the exercise was a good exercise in team building, open ended exploration with the materials provided and a good opportunity for the teachers to observe their students. Meanwhile Marcus (Swainswick Explorer) kept a good campfire going producing popcorn, followed by marshmallows.
Following breaktime, Mrs Gibbons' class came out. We walked along the lane looking for any unusal snail activity...we saw at least 3 types, up stalks, on leaves, on pieces of grass etc. We also saw some poisonous snakefood berries. We explored along the railway line (defunct!) and descended back into the den building area. The same exercise of shelter day followed with popcorn and mallows.
Really good to facilitate experiential learning with Year 1; I look forward to their next session in the New Year.
