Twineham school’s muddy outdoor learning

A village primary school has been educating its children outside once a week­ — but not for English, maths or science.
Twineham School SUS-200511-161739001Twineham School SUS-200511-161739001
Twineham School SUS-200511-161739001

Instead, every Tuesday afternoon – whether it is raining or sunny – Twineham Primary School’s buttercup class to go a field for ‘muddy learning’.

Scott Reece, headteacher, said: “It is part of Twineham CE Primary School’s focus on taking learning outdoors, recognising the benefit this has on children’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

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“Each week, the children in reception and year one learn about the weather and seasons first hand: making music in the rain; harvesting pumpkins from their garden; or going on their very own swallow migration.

Twineham School SUS-200511-161728001Twineham School SUS-200511-161728001
Twineham School SUS-200511-161728001

“Pupils learn and apply key maths skills by reading thermometers, sorting leaves and measuring the depth of puddles.

“They strengthen their muscles and dexterity by building dens, climbing trees, tying knots and using clay.

“They read to find out about the bugs and birds they have spotted and write down their weather reports, plant labels and stories.

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“It is also a key time to build resilience, and a sense of community, with children persevering to solve their own problems whilst learning new nature games and songs.

Twineham School SUS-200511-161707001Twineham School SUS-200511-161707001
Twineham School SUS-200511-161707001

“Lizzie Cotton, our leader for outdoor learning, also takes all of the year groups outside on a rota every Friday throughout the whole year.

“If you are seeking a school place for your child, Twineham has places available in reception from September 2021 and limited spaces in other year groups.

“Just visit www.twineham.w-sussex.sch.uk to find out more.”