Using Bristol as a Resource: Learning Beyond the Classroom
We make the most of the world around us and opportunities to take learning beyond the classroom. We are in a fantastic location with so many interesting places, such as the docks, the Underfall Yard and the Clifton Suspension Bridge within walking distance. We make frequent use of the local area and the school grounds to enhance children’s learning. We also look for opportunities to work with the community, including parents and volunteers. We work closely with Hope Chapel and Trinity Church and in a number of ways, such as our exciting new Memory Club link with Trinity Day Centre and our annual Harvest Festival in partnership with North Bristol Foodbank.
We regularly invite visitors into school for the children to meet and learn from. For example, local artists have led workshops for our children. We know that these experiences interest and inspire our learners
Residential Visits
Our children in Key Stage 2 go on residential camps every year, which give them experiences beyond those we can provide in school. Our children begin with a Big Adventure Day in Year 4 at Charter House, before a three day residential camp at Longtown in Year 5 and then a week at PGL in Year 6.
Forest School
Our pupils also enjoy regular Forest School sessions: every year group in the school now gets to experience Forest School throughout the year. This is a carefully planned program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem through learner inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting.
We are fortunate enough to have access to a Forest School outdoors classroom at a private woodland adjacent to Bristol Cathedral Choir School playing fields, Beggar Bush Lane, BS8 3TG. The site is continually being developed to give a broad range of experiences. It has a log circle base camp with a permanent fire site, woodland swing and see-saw, woodland train, bug hotels, mud kitchen, tippy tappy hand wash station and dedicated tool area. It is a truly magical site with ample space for children to learn and play.
Our Curriculum Entitlement Passport:
Our Curriculum Entitlement Passport has been created to ensure that our pupils receive a wide range of co-curricular activities during their time with us. This includes opportunities in the arts including performance, sports, environment and adventure, things to do in Bristol, life skills and contributions to the community. You can see our Curriculum Entitlement Passport below: