Mr Tayler, Head of Outdoor Education, has developed a new Outdoor Learning programme to enrich our Primary 1 pupils' educational journey and nurture a deep connection with the environment. 

Recently, a wide range of activities based on navigation has been undertaken, designed to build progressively. Starting with simple cone card challenges, these led to a short orienteering course, with small groups following simple maps independently. 

Next, compasses and basic bearings (North, East, South, West) were introduced, with pupils finding markers displaying their spelling words, reinforcing classroom learning with lots of running around, cheering, and giggling. 

Using the SAMR pedagogical model (Substitution, Augmentation, Manipulation, Redefinition), which our teachers are familiar with from digital education, creates a powerful learning environment both indoors and outdoors. Maths and history have been explored by measuring how big a dinosaur is based on the size of its footprint (10 times the length of its foot equals the length of the dinosaur).

Children delight in exploring nature, engaging in hands-on activities, and building friendships in the fresh air. Experimentation with planting willow structures has also begun. The structures, if successful, will provide shelter and small group spaces in the coming years.

With future plans to use the allotment and continue willow planting, a lasting link to the environment will be created, offering the enjoyment and mental health benefits it provides.

From their earliest days, children explore places of historical, cultural, geographical, and scientific interest in the local and broader community.