Year One had a special treat during Creative Arts week. Science Coordinator Mr Walker talked about the Rain Forests and what trees do for us. Through discussion the children were encouraged to think about the various uses made of paper, where it comes from, and the importance of recycling. Then the children had first hand experience of making paper. They worked hard tearing used paper into small pieces and then added water. Many hands did a lot of squashing and squeezing and to the children’s great delight porridge like pulp was created. This was placed in water and a little glue and everyone enjoyed the final task spreading the mixture out to dry. This was a great experience and the children are now looking forward to writing on their freshly made paper. 

We continued our Rainforest theme when Mrs Barnett visited Year One. She came with a big box, containing material, paper wool and cord. We added our own collection of paper and fabric and then with Mrs Barnett’s guidance the children started drawing, cutting and sticking to create flowers and leaves. To everyone’s delight the tables and floor in the class room started to disappear under our creations, leaves and vines everywhere. Animal collages also took shape, chameleons, monkeys, butterflies, and frogs as well as a colourful jaguar. The children had a wonderful time.

There was more than a rumble in the jungle when Mrs Kirkham shared a selection of poems and a story with Year one. The children were encouraged to think carefully about the detail of the text as Mrs Kirkham made the different animal characters amazingly real. The children eagerly joined in and together using sound and movement the classroom was filled with jungle animal characters beautifully brought to life with energy and enthusiasm.

Maureen Jeffery