Lessons were cancelled for two days at St Mary’s Primary School, Fownhope, as children and parents enjoyed two days of creative and outdoor activities.

Led by Richard Fishbourne of Bugs and Beasties, school and preschool children enjoyed worm charming and roasting marshmallows over an open fire.

Children made autumn collages in the style of Andy Goldsworthy, the celebrated environmental artist. Other craft and art included mud painting, stone painting and making Nature Wreaths.

Storytelling outside evolved into drama to get children more involved and inspired by stories about SuperTato, children also made superhero vegetables.

The PTA led children, parents and governors in gardening and tidying up the fields, dens, activity areas and quiet areas.

“It’s about the whole child, doing more than the curriculum or Ofsted require;” said Mr Milne, Head Teacher, “We believe in more than just academic excellence and we want to make learning fun. We want to give the children exciting opportunities to develop their knowledge of the world and try new things to find out what they’re good at. The children take ownership of their school outside environment, which they have had a part in improving.”

“We have these days to make children more aware of how nice the environment is and how much they should appreciate the world around them,” said Bodhi Biggs, one of three Environment Prefects “Also, we’ve realised that the children really enjoy these days.”See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.