Learning in Autumn

Our Year 2 pupils were treated to an education in Autumn in their Forest School session. Led by Mrs Stableforth, our pupils’ first task was to restock the bug hotel with plenty of delicious leaves for its residents.

They were also able to see their bat box and hedgehog hotel being installed in our woodland surrounds.

With mushrooms on the forest floor and berries in the trees, it was also a fantastic opportunity for pupils to remember the first rule in their Forest School song: ‘We do not eat at Forest School.’ Pupils looked at the Yew Tree as an example; whilst the bright red flesh of the berry (aril) is not toxic, the seed inside is extremely poisonous, as are the leaves, bark, and all other parts of the tree. This beautiful tree serves as a reminder to us all how important it is to be mindful of washing our hands carefully after handling certain plants and fungi.

Pupils were also challenged to see if they could spot the Amanita Muscaria, or the fly agaric, which are currently growing by the front entrance to the Prep. It is one of the most recognisable fungi in the world, with a bright red cap covered in distinctive white warts and white gills, but it is also extremely poisonous and best left to be enjoyed by the slugs who love to feed on it.

Thank you to our incredible Forest School team for sharing their knowledge with our lucky pupils. As everyone took time out to lie down on the forest floor, it was the perfect end to a wonderful autumn experience.