Earlier this year we had the pleasure of being joined by Cumbrae Primary School, at our Millport centre on the Isle of Cumbrae for five half-day sessions. The course sessions were delivered by our Tutor, Jack Lock.
The children took part in a varied programme of hands-on outdoor education activities designed to combine nature connection, environmental education and development of personal skills. The sessions included:
- Rock climbing the Devil’s Dyke and supporting their fellow pupils to also make it to the top.
- Bushcraft, learning how to fend for themselves in the wilderness during some tasks, including fire-lighting and shelter building.
- Rocky shore exploration at the nearby rocky shore to explore the intertidal zone and learn about the amazing sea creatures that survive there.
- Pond dipping to look at the curious creatures that live in the water, as well as looking at the interactions between animals and making food chains from this knowledge.
- Team games and ballista building, working together to complete challenges such as escaping the sinking ship, stick of dynamite or fleeing through the escape tunnel.
- Compass orienteering to navigate their way around the grounds, learning about the site’s past and present.
“I know about different pond animals. I am more confident, resilient, independent, tolerant and patient. I have learned new skills – e.g. how to use a compass to read a map, tie knots, use a microscope, rock-climb build a den and fire.” Chloe, Pupil at Cumbrae Primary
We asked their teacher, Julie Joyce, to feedback to us the impact she felt it had had on herself as well as on the children. This is what she said:
How has this changed you as a teacher
It has made me realise how beneficial outdoor learning is for the children’s mental and physical wellbeing. It has made me more positive about doing outdoor activities in all seasons/weather. I am now more aware of the benefits and opportunities living in a small island community with different environments to explore and learn from – woodland, fields, hills, rocks, beaches, ponds etc.
How has this course helped you as a teacher?
I have increased my knowledge of the local area, marine biology, local wildlife and orienteering. It has given me great ideas for team-building games and activities.
My class got the opportunity to do new things that we don’t have the equipment to do in school.
What have you learned that you will take back into the classroom?
Orienteering, using a compass. Scientific terms and facts. Team games.
Have you felt supported as a teacher on this course?
Yes, Jack Lock and the other Field Studies Council staff have been wonderful- friendly, helpful, organised, efficient and well-prepared. The children look up to Jack and have great respect for him and his colleagues.
Jack was great at making sure a child in a wheelchair was fully included in all activities. He was always patient, fun, firm but fair and explained things clearly to the children.
Field Studies Council staff helped transport us to the centre and back to school which was a great help.
What would you say to someone considering taking part in a Field Studies Council course?
I would highly recommend it. It is a fantastic place to learn new knowledge and develop key skills. They offer exciting experiences, new opportunities and fun-filled adventures. The instructors are experienced, knowledgeable, friendly and enthusiastic. The Field Studies Council is in a lovely location and they have a lot of great equipment and resources. Courses are well thought-out, well-prepared, well-organised, safe and inclusive.
We also asked the children for their feedback and what we got was far beyond what we expected. Take a look through these wonderful testimonials from the children who obvioulsy had a wonderful time on their funded trip.
