Features

Enabling Environments: Visits and Visitors, part 2 - Set in stone

Going on a fossil hunt showed children a new aspect of their local area and was a rich opportunity for exploring the outdoors, says Tessa Fenoughty.

When Nicky, one of the boys from our unit, came to school with a fossil, it sparked in the other children an interest that led to a visit to the local river in search of 'treasure' and adventure.

Learning context

One of our core Learning Contexts for the first term is 'community'. Within this context we address themes that are related particularly to our local environment.

In our long-term planning we had provisionally planned a visit into the local area, but the focus of the outing had yet to be determined. Possible themes such as an autumn walk, a visit to local shops, a letter or number hunt were discussed by the team, but we are always open to ideas and interests generated by the children. So, when Nicky arrived at school one Monday morning with a clutch of fossils, we decided to explore further to see if it would generate interest among other children in the unit.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here