Understanding and Enjoying the Outside

A programme for Years 1 to 4, designed to develop children's understanding of the British countryside

The day starts with a taught introduction. Questioning will be used to discover the children's understanding. This will be built on discussing the animals and plants that are commonly found, and how they are interlinked through what they eat. 

Children will rotate around a series of activities in small groups.  All the equipment to complete the activities will be provided. 

1. Pond dipping - this activity will be led by the Botanic Garden teacher. The pond is species rich and the children will use a net to find animals. Identification charts will be provided, suitable for the children's age. For Years 3 and 4, life cycles and food chains will be discussed. 

2. Mini beast hunting - children will be given a selection of bug pots and identification charts. They will have the opportunity to see what animals they can find and identify.

3. Tree identification - several common British trees will be labelled, and by using special booklets, children will identify them and learn more about how they are useful to people and animals.

4. Herbs - children will have the opportunity to look in detail at a selection of common herbs, and learn how people use them. 

5. Exploring - children will have the opportunity to explore other areas of the beautiful 16 acre Botanic Garden including the tropical, desert, warm temperate and alpine glasshouses.

The day will finish with a taught plenary to draw together what has been learnt during the day.  

• Numbers: We can take one or two classes at one time
• Availability: March - early November
• Times: Full -day
• Lunch: Can be eaten outside or inside the classroom
• Cost: Please visit our programme costs page