This page contains a summary of the programmes we currently offer to reception and KS1 groups. If you have any further queries please email the learning team.
Growing Green (March - December, Year 1 & Year 2)
Students take an interactive tree journey from the end of its deepest root to the tip of its highest branch, exploring the different tree parts they encounter and learning how each is adapted to help the tree survive and grow in a competitive environment. This is followed by a game that considers the importance of trees for animals and people.
Key concepts: Plant structure and functions, plant growth, importance of trees for animals and people
Woodland Detectives (March - December, Reception)
Specially designed for Reception pupils. Put your detective hat on and come and see whether you can work out which animals live at Westonbirt. Look for signs of animal life, and find out how they live through a variety of activities and games.
Key Concepts: Habitats, animals in the environment, needs for life
Woodland Detectives (March - December, Year 1 & Year 2)
Put your detective hat on and come and see whether you can work out which animals live at Westonbirt. Look for signs of animal life, and find out how they live through a variety of activities and games.
Key concepts: Habitats, animals in the environment, needs for life
Finding Art in Nature (March - November, Reception - Year 2)
Using the arboretum for inspiration, students explore the myriad of colours, textures and shapes found amongst the trees as well having a chance to be creative themselves. Students explore the arboretum through a specially designed sensory walk before creating their own art gallery among the trees.
Key concepts: Colour, shape, texture, sculpture, environmental art
Natural sculpture (March - December, Reception - Year 2)
Using the arboretum for inspiration, students explore the idea of natural sculpture, inspired by artists such as Andy Goldsworthy. Students create their own environmental artwork in the arboretum using natural materials both individually and in groups.
Key concepts: Sensory awareness, shape, form, sculpture, use of natural materials
Tall Tree Tales (March - December, Years 1&2)
Children prepare for their expedition as story explorers before embarking on a story trail through the arboretum’s magnificent surroundings. They search for clues and props for a variety of story activities that develop different story skills.
Key Concepts: Story structure, setting the scene, description, characters
Woodland Adventures (March - December, Reception and Year 1)
Created specially for early years students, these programmes focus on a sensory exploration of the season with activities designed to stimulate and develop early communication skills, physical dexterity and creativity.
Key concepts: Senses and sensory awareness, play, exploration
Season of Mists, Autumn Special (September - Late November, Reception to Year 2)
Take an amazing sensory journey through one of the best natural fireworks displays in the country. Our discovery walk investigates the seasonal changes firsthand focusing on leaves, seeds and how animals prepare for winter.
Key concepts: Seasonal change, seed dispersal, evergreen, deciduous
Festive Woodland Winter Special (December, Reception – Year 2)
Come and explore our wonderful variety of evergreen trees, find out which plants are connected to our winter traditions and discover how different woodland animals survive the cold weather. Children then have the opportunity to create natural festive decorations.
Staying for the day? Why not help Santa find his missing reindeer by following our self-guided trail.
Key concepts: Seasonal change, evergreen, deciduous, survival strategies
