Welly Days
Welly Days are a highlight at Brooke Priory School, where the children take a step back from the classroom and immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Set in the beautiful original grounds of our school, Brooke Priory House, Welly Days offer a unique opportunity for children to engage in activities that nurture creativity, independence, and a love for nature—things that can’t be replicated within the walls of a traditional classroom.
Welly Day is an exciting and educational event where pupils take their learning outdoors, embracing the wonders of nature, all while keeping their feet warm and dry in their trusty wellies! Designed to connect pupils with the environment, this day is filled with hands-on, interactive activities that engage their senses and spark curiosity.
1. Nature Walks & Exploration:
Pupils embark on guided nature walks around the school grounds, exploring different habitats and identifying plants, animals, and natural features. They learn about biodiversity and the importance of environmental conservation.
2. Outdoor Science Experiments:
Hands-on science activities allow pupils to conduct experiments using natural materials. They might test soil samples, observe weather patterns, or create their own mini ecosystems.
3. Forest School Skills:
Children participate in forest school-style learning, where they practice skills like den building, fire building, cooking on open fire, fire safety and using tools to create outdoor art or shelters.
4. Sensory Scavenger Hunts:
A fun and engaging way for pupils to learn about their surroundings. They search for items based on different textures, colours, sounds, and smells, developing their sensory awareness and observational skills.
5. Eco-Art & Nature Crafts:
Creative outdoor sessions where pupils collect natural materials like leaves, twigs, and stones to make art or crafts, promoting environmental appreciation and creativity.
6. Gardening & Planting:
Pupils may take part in planting flowers, vegetables, or trees on the site, learning about sustainable gardening practices and the importance of caring for the environment.
7. Team Building Challenges:
Outdoor games and problem-solving activities that encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership. These might include obstacle courses, relay races, or group challenges using natural materials.
8. Wildlife Observation:
Pupils learn to observe and identify local wildlife, from birds to insects, discovering how animals interact with their environment and the role they play in the ecosystem.
Welly Days allow children to reconnect with the past—giving them the opportunity to play and learn as children did over 30 years ago when the school was first founded. It’s a chance for pupils to unplug, get their hands dirty, and embrace outdoor play in a way that fosters curiosity and personal growth.
Through these activities, we aim to foster a lifelong love for the outdoors and the skills necessary for pupils to thrive, both in the classroom and beyond. Every Welly Day is a reminder of the power of outdoor learning, the importance of play, and the joy of discovery.
