SP Outdoor Classroom Day - 24 & 27 March

With a focus on Decomposition, the Senior Primary had a very happy morning with their respective outdoor days, emerging wiser for the experience. There was a deliberate focus on the FBI (fungi, bacteria and invertebrates on campus), as well as the vital role each organism plays within Clifton’s context. Working in small groups, and armed with iPads, imaginary bacteria were created, and our budding Attenboroughs discovered some lovely examples of fungi and invertebrates. Ever heard of the Ruby Bonnet mushroom… or springtails? Go on… Google them! You know you want to! Our children had their eyes (willingly) opened to a new (ish) world in some cases, and a deeper appreciation for the gift of Top Woods and our campus.

After stretching brains and a relaxing tea break, the Grade 4s were off to ‘harvest’ sunflower seeds from some sunflower heads and to start the germination process… keep an eye out for them popping up around campus in the coming months. The Grade 5s spent time working at their First Aid Out & About badges, guided by the gentle hand of Sr Willson. For the Grade 6 & 7s it was off to build 4 compost heaps. After a quick explanation of the role of ‘greens’ and the ‘browns’, and a reminder of the critical role our FBI friends play, it was down to business. With much hammering, collecting, layering and action, the compost heaps were off to a good start, with a special ‘add’ from Mr Fleischack’s personal collection of cuttings and peelings.

What a privilege to be able to be able to do so much outdoor-based learning on our campus…

What better way to end of than with a shower… or a forest ‘bath’? Mrs Worrall introduced the children to the Japanese concept of Forest Bathing, along with some suitable music to help the children unwind before lunch. Is there any truth in the rumour that a specific Grade 7 boy was last seen sleeping in the 5 Finger Tree?

Outdoor Learning Day is a great opportunity for the children to be reminded of how magnificent our campus is and how fortunate we are to have it. Intentional observation and incidental learning are wonderful spin-offs to a fun day out.