Pre-Prep Visit The Botanic Garden
The children in Nursery and Reception enjoyed a wonderful visit to the Oxford Botanic Garden where they explored the beautiful surroundings despite the changeable weather. We were fortunate to avoid the heaviest rain and even managed to enjoy a picnic together in the greenhouse, which was a novel experience!
Using the Montessori Colour Box 3, the children carefully observed and matched colours found in nature and around the gardens. They were particularly interested in the sculptures displayed throughout the grounds, including the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland. This encouraged the children to talk about what they could see, compare colours and shapes, and develop their observational skills.
The rainforest and arid glasshouse proved especially popular. The children were fascinated to discover banana trees and were excited to spot young bananas beginning to grow. They also found the cacti very funny if rather spiky. They discussed the different plants they could see and experienced the warm, humid environment of the rainforest and dry heat of the desert.
This trip supported many areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage including Understanding the World as children explored the natural environment and learned about plants from different climates. It also promoted Communication and Language through conversations, questioning and sharing ideas, and Personal, Social and Emotional Development as the children enjoyed new experiences together, practised turn-taking and demonstrated confidence while exploring an unfamiliar setting.
