Somerhill Review 2023/24

THE SOMERHILL REVIEW 2023/24

The Lent term found us embarking on a journey of exploration and creativity.We delved into the world of animal tracks, inspired by ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’.We crafted intricate footprints in dough, using a variety of tools and natural materials, and even created patterns reminiscent of animal paw prints. Amidst the snowy weather, the children delighted in making patterns and ice sculptures outdoors, before cosying up in the yurt for stories, snacks, and discussions about how woodland animals stay warm in the cold. As part of the RSPB Big Schools’ Bird Watch, the children practised quiet observation during ‘sit spot’ sessions, noting and discussing the birds they spotted. In addition, we focused on woodland creatures and their habitats, constructing mini nests with collected natural materials and observing animal prints. As the days grew warmer, we explored the emerging signs of spring with vibrant daffodils and buzzing bumblebees. We mastered the art of egg crafting, made pinecone bumblebees and felt swallows. The Trinity term began with spotting a tiny door leading to the old sweet chestnut tree…where did it go? Who could fit in there? These sparked weeks of fairy fun! We used lots of different tools including a hammer, knife, drill, and nails to make fairy doors, chairs and tables. We made fairy peg dolls and wrote to the fairies using leaves as paper. The fun continued over the term as the children’s play developed and we created fairy potions in the mud kitchen using herbs, grass, leaves, seeds, flower petals and water.The children also learnt how to make chalk paint by using graters and pipettes, carefully making chalk powder, and exploring how much water to add to make the perfect consistency. Caterpillars took up residency at Saplings and we watched them grow from tiny caterpillars into chrysalises, finally emerging as butterflies. It was truly magical as we released them into our meadow area, watching them flutter away on their new adventure.We collected different coloured flower petals and used the hapazome (hammering) technique to create pictures of butterflies on cotton.The elder tree flowered this term, and we could not pass up the opportunity to investigate and learn about this wonderful giving tree. We collected the flowers to make elderflower pancakes and cordial. Not surprisingly it was very well received with shouts of “Can I have some more please?!” We also looked at the elder bark and learnt that inside the elder has an exceptionally soft pith. This could easily be removed by using a tent peg and from it we created elder bead necklaces.

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