Out Trip to the Countryside Education Trust - Adders.

What a fantastic day we all had at the Countryside Education Trust in Beaulieu! The children were extremely well behaved and represented themselves and the school really well. We were able to spend all day learning about what it would be like to be a woodland creature living in the New Forest.

Our first activity was Pond Dipping. The children loved getting stuck in with nets, spoons and magnifying pots. The best discoveries included a newt, a water nymph, pond skaters and water boatmen.

In the classroom we were shown some stuffed animals that had lived in the nearby woods. We were able to discuss their natural adaptations and how they make them suited to life in the forest. The children were fascinated being able to see a real badger so close up. 

Then it was time for lunch and the children's most burning question was answered.

Once we had eaten we headed back into the forest to pretend to be some of the animals we had been learning about. First of all we were transformed into moles and navigated through the trees as if we couldn't see.

Another skill we trialed was balancing along a branch like a squirrel. We tried out best but it was a good job that the branch wasn't high up in the trees! 

Then we became rabbits running from predators such as foxes. We had to crawl into our burrows and hide.

Next we worked in groups to create temporary pieces of natural art using things that we could find in a small clearing. Take a look at our great creations.

The children were a little tired on the way home and some decided the coach journey was the perfect opportunity to take a little nap!

All of the children and adults had a great day learning about the woodland animals. Thank you to all of the volunteers who came along to help the children with their learning, we couldn't have had such a great day without you. Also, thank you to the staff at the Countryside Education Trust for delivering such a wonderful day trip for us.