Beginnings: A Blank Canvas in September 2023

When I joined Knightwood Primary School in September 2023, I was thrilled to take on the role of Outdoor Learning Leader. The school grounds were a blank canvas, brimming with potential. With a pond, orchard, allotment, story circle, and each class having their own planter, the possibilities were endless! However, the abundance of resources also presented a significant challenge: where to start? This journey was not just about transforming spaces but also about transforming mindsets, getting the staff involved, and fostering enthusiasm for new initiatives.

Finding Our Way: Partnering with Craig and the Wildlife Trust

One of the turning points in our journey was finding Craig (Engagement Officer at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust). His expertise and guidance were invaluable. He helped us audit our school grounds, offering insights and inspiration that were crucial for our transformation. With Craig's help, we were able to envision a structured plan for enhancing our outdoor spaces.

Our first significant project was the creation of a 'Bog Garden.' We selected a strip of land outside our Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), which typically had a foot of water throughout winter. This area, often a mini pond, was transformed into a vibrant habitat with bog plants and informative labels. The children were deeply involved in this transformation, and their engagement was heartening. The Bog Garden is now a thriving habitat, and the children are no longer running through the waterlogged area, but instead, they are learning about and appreciating the unique ecosystem it supports.

Building a Team: The Formation of the LEAF Team

One of the most significant successes has been the formation of our LEAF Team (Learning outdoors, Eco-schools, And Forest school). This team has been instrumental in driving our outdoor initiatives. It has brought together like-minded staff members who are passionate about outdoor learning and environmental education. We created a LEAF display in the school to showcase our activities and achievements to children and visitors alike. The visual representation of our efforts has been a great motivator and has fostered a sense of pride within the school community.

We have recently set up a Forest School program for Year R, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The children are thriving in the outdoor environment, learning valuable skills and developing a deeper appreciation for nature. Our goal is to extend this program to other year groups. The expansion of Forest School will provide more children with the opportunity to benefit from outdoor learning experiences.

Our first LEAF Day and Eco-Fayre were monumental successes. On this day, all children were off-timetable, engaged in making items to sell at the fayre. The creativity and enthusiasm were palpable. Activities included making seed bombs, sunflowers, birdfeeders, God’s eyes, and even setting up a clothes trading stall. The event not only raised an impressive £400 for future outdoor projects but also brought the community together in support of our environmental initiatives. The funds raised will be used to develop future outdoor learning projects.

Gaining Recognition: Featured in the Trailblazer Newsletter

Our efforts have not gone unnoticed. We were featured in the Trailblazer newsletter, which showcased the outdoor learning activities happening across Knightwood Primary School. This recognition has been a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. It has also provided a platform to share our journey and inspire other schools to embark on similar initiatives.

Networking and Collaboration: Learning from Others

Networking with other schools and staff through Hampshire Outdoors and the Schools Environmental Education Network has been incredibly beneficial. These interactions have allowed me to gain new ideas, learn from the experiences of others, and explore how different spaces are utilised. The knowledge and inspiration gained from these networks have been invaluable in shaping our own outdoor learning journey.

Expanding Resources: The Nature Grant

We were fortunate enough to win a Learning Through Landscapes Nature Grant. This grant has enabled us to order more outdoor learning resources, including a wildlife kit, staff training materials, books, and benches.

Our eco-warrior team is currently working towards achieving the Green Flag award for our school. Achieving the Green Flag will be a significant milestone in our journey and a source of pride for the entire school community.

Joining National Education Nature Park and Climate 180

Another significant step in our journey has been joining the National Education Nature Park and the Climate 180 initiative. These programs align perfectly with our goals and values, providing additional support and resources for our outdoor learning and sustainability efforts.

Reflecting on the Journey

Reflecting on the journey so far, it is incredible to see how much has been achieved in such a short time. The transformation of our school grounds, the engagement of staff and students, and the support from the wider community have all contributed to our success. The journey has not been without its challenges, but the rewards have been immense. Seeing the children learn and grow through their interactions with nature has been the most fulfilling aspect of this journey.

The Road Ahead: Harvest Fest and Beyond

Our next big event was Harvest Fest. We are eager to involve external agencies and businesses in this celebration. If you are reading this and would like to support our LEAF Day or Harvest Fest in 2025, please get in touch! Community involvement is vital for the success and sustainability of our projects. We believe that by working together, we can achieve great things and provide our children with enriching learning experiences.

As we look to the future, there is still much to be done. We aim to continue developing our outdoor spaces, introducing new projects, and involving more members of the community. We are committed to providing our children with rich, diverse learning experiences that foster a love for nature and an understanding of the importance of sustainability. The journey is ongoing, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

In conclusion, the Wilder School journey at Knightwood Primary has been a transformative experience. It has brought the school community closer together, provided enriching learning experiences for the children, and fostered a greater appreciation for the natural world. We are proud of what we have achieved so far and look forward to continuing this journey, creating a legacy of environmental stewardship and outdoor learning for future generations.

If you are interested in supporting our initiatives or would like to learn more about our projects, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Together, we can make a difference and inspire a love for nature in the hearts of our children.

Full time Year 3 teacher @ Knightwood Primary School

Outdoor Learning Leader @ Knightwood Primary School

t.kennard@knightwood.hants.sch.uk