Royles Brook Primary School has a Teepee!..... And its Awesome

Embracing Nature: Teepees as Outdoor Classrooms for Engaging Education

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the benefits of outdoor education. Incorporating nature into the learning environment enhances student engagement, fosters a sense of wonder, and promotes holistic development. One innovative way to embrace the outdoors is by introducing teepees as outdoor classrooms. These iconic structures offer a unique and inspiring setting for educational activities, allowing students to connect with nature while expanding their knowledge. Let's explore how teepees can transform traditional classrooms into captivating outdoor learning spaces.

Embracing Cultural Heritage: Integrating teepees as outdoor classrooms provides an opportunity to honor and learn from Indigenous cultures. Students can gain a deeper appreciation for Native American traditions by experiencing firsthand the design and cultural significance of teepees. This incorporation helps foster respect, cross-cultural understanding, and a sense of appreciation for diverse perspectives.

1. Immersive Learning Environment: Teepees offer a distinct ambiance that ignites curiosity and creativity. Inside the teepee, students are enveloped by a natural and rustic setting, evoking a sense of adventure and connection with the natural world. This immersive learning environment stimulates engagement and encourages active participation in lessons.

2. Multi-disciplinary Learning: Outdoor classrooms in teepees allow for a wide range of interdisciplinary learning experiences. Science classes can explore the local ecosystem, observing plants, animals, and natural processes. Literature and language arts lessons can take on a new dimension as students are inspired to read, write, and share stories around the communal fire. Mathematics and art can be integrated through measuring, designing, and decorating teepee poles or creating artwork inspired by Indigenous motifs.

3. Environmental Education: Using teepees as outdoor classrooms is an excellent opportunity to instill environmental awareness and foster a sense of stewardship. Students can learn about sustainable practices, conservation, and the importance of respecting nature. They can actively participate in activities like planting and maintaining a school garden, composting, or learning traditional ecological knowledge from Indigenous elders.

4. Experiential and Collaborative Learning: Teepees encourage experiential and collaborative learning. Students can engage in hands-on activities, team projects, and group discussions, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. The communal space inside the teepee nurtures a sense of community, cooperation, and shared responsibility, fostering a positive learning environment.

5. Mindfulness and Well-being: Nature has a profound impact on our well-being, promoting stress reduction, improved focus, and overall mental health. Teepee-based outdoor classrooms provide a serene and calming setting that encourages mindfulness and a connection with the natural world. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or reflective journaling, can enhance student well-being and emotional resilience.

Conclusion: Integrating teepees as outdoor classrooms opens up a world of possibilities for enriching education. By embracing Indigenous culture, immersing students in nature, and creating unique learning environments, teepee-based outdoor classrooms nurture a love for learning, curiosity, and environmental stewardship. As we seek innovative educational approaches, let us not forget the power of nature in transforming education and inspiring the next generation of learners.

Take a look how else Royles Brook Primary makes use of its amazing outdoor spaces!

Manchester Weather Won't Stop Us!

The Amazing Pear Tree School in Kirkham

Having a child with special needs can be a unique and challenging experience for parents. The experience can vary greatly depending on the specific needs of the child, the severity of their condition, and the support and resources available to the family.

For parents, having a child with special needs can be a source of joy and fulfillment, as they are able to celebrate the unique strengths and talents of their child.

Parents of children with special needs often face additional financial, logistical, and emotional burdens that can be overwhelming at times. They may need to provide more extensive care for their child than parents of typically developing children, including administering medication, providing therapy, and managing their child's daily needs.

Having an amazing school like Pear Tree School in Kirkham provides that emotional and logistical support to parents.

Despite the challenges, many parents find that having a child with special needs can also bring new meaning and purpose to their lives, as they work to support and care for their child in unique and meaningful ways. With the right support and resources, parents can provide their child with a fulfilling and meaningful life, while also finding joy and meaning in their own journey as parents.

A good school that caters for special needs children can have numerous benefits for both parents and the children who attend such a school. Here are some of the ways that such a school can be beneficial:

1. Specialized Education: A school that caters to special needs children will have specialized programs and trained professionals who are equipped to address the unique learning and developmental needs of these children. This can help ensure that children receive the appropriate educational support and interventions needed to help them reach their full potential.

2. Supportive Environment: A school that caters to special needs children will often have a supportive and understanding environment where children feel accepted and valued. This can be a welcome change for parents who may have faced challenges in finding inclusive environments for their child.

3. Tailored Services: A school that caters to special needs children may offer a range of additional services, such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy. These services can be incredibly beneficial for children who require additional support to help them learn and develop.

4. Community Building: A school that caters to special needs children can also provide a sense of community for both parents and children. This can be especially important for parents who may feel isolated or marginalized due to the unique needs of their child.

5. Improved Outcomes: A good school that caters to special needs children can also lead to improved outcomes for children. Research has shown that children who attend schools that are tailored to their unique needs often make significant progress in their academic, social, and emotional development.

Overall, a good school that caters to special needs children can provide a supportive and enriching environment for both parents and children, and help ensure that children receive the education and support they need to reach their full potential.

Photography and Videography by MyFoto. If you think your school would benefit from a tailored video production, and photoshoot then get in touch.

Top School Dogs

We have photpgraphed some great school dogs here at Myfoto. A a furry four legged friend can be useful in a school setting for a number of reasons

Therapy dogs can be a valuable resource for young children, offering a range of benefits that can help them to develop emotionally and socially. What aree some of the ways in which therapy dogs can be used to support the wellbeing of young children, and why they are such a powerful tool for helping kids to thrive?

First and foremost, therapy dogs are known for their ability to provide comfort and companionship to children. They are gentle, friendly, and non-judgmental, making them the perfect companions for kids who may be struggling with social or emotional issues. For children who have experienced trauma or loss, for example, a therapy dog can provide a sense of safety and security that can help them to cope with their feelings.

Therapy dogs can also be used to help children develop important social and emotional skills. For example, children who may be shy or introverted can learn to build confidence and self-esteem by interacting with a therapy dog. This can be especially beneficial for children with autism or other social disorders, as therapy dogs can help them to learn how to read social cues and communicate effectively with others.

Therapy dogs can also be used to help children develop important cognitive skills. For example, children who are learning to read can practice reading aloud to a therapy dog, who will listen patiently and provide positive reinforcement. This can help to build children's confidence in their reading abilities and make learning more enjoyable.

Therapy dogs can be used to help children with special needs. For example, children with physical disabilities can benefit from therapy dogs, who can provide them with mobility support, help them to develop fine motor skills, and provide them with companionship. Children with developmental disabilities can also benefit from therapy dogs, who can help them to learn new skills and build self-confidence.

In conclusion, therapy dogs can play an important role in helping young children to develop emotionally and socially. They provide comfort, companionship, and a sense of safety, and can help children to develop important skills such as self-esteem, socialization, and cognitive abilities. If you are a parent, caregiver, or therapist working with children, consider exploring the possibility of incorporating therapy dogs into your work.

Stanley

“Confident, Engergetic”

Holme Slack Primary School Preston

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Loki

“Sweet, Shy, Freindly”

Northbrook Primary School Leyland.

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Bonnie

“Bonnie by name bonnie by nature”

Our Lady and St Anselm’s Whitworth.

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Bertie

“Cautious, Dependable”

Royles Brook Primary, Thornton-Cleavleys

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New Website Photoshoot at Tonacliffe Primary School Whitworth

We were spoilt for choice for things to photograph at Toncaliffe Primary School when we spent a day capturing all the good things going on there for their new School Spider website that was being built.

Band Rehearsal with string section, a full costume dress rehearsals for 2 nativity plays, and an amazing Forest School session in the wilds of the Lancashire moorland, all happening in one amazing day.

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas! - Donkeys, Shepherds and Angels

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Forrest School at Tonacliffe Primary Whitworth

Just chillin’ up here in my tree

Band Practice

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Ready for the Queens Jubilee at Bretherton

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022 is a major milestone for the United Kingdom, marking 70 years of her reign. As such, it is a significant event for the entire country, including primary schools.

To celebrate this occasion, many primary schools in the UK have been getting involved in a variety of ways. Some have been organizing special events, such as tea parties and parades, to commemorate the occasion. Others have been incorporating lessons about the monarchy and the history of the United Kingdom into their curriculum, giving students a deeper understanding of the significance of this milestone.

In addition to these activities, many primary schools have also been encouraging their students to participate in creative projects related to the jubilee. This could include writing essays, creating artwork, or even composing songs or poems.

One of the most popular ways for primary schools to get involved in the jubilee is through the "Big Jubilee Lunch" initiative, which encourages schools and communities to come together and share a meal to celebrate the occasion. This is a great way for students to learn about the importance of community and togetherness, and to build connections with others in their local area.

Overall, primary schools in the UK are playing an important role in the celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Whether through special events, curriculum-based activities, or community-building initiatives, they are helping to make this a truly memorable and meaningful occasion for all.

The Greatest Show Rehearsal Day

The Avenham Centre, Preston

The COVID-19 pandemic has really been a rough ride for small regional dance schools in the UK. Just like many other small businesses in the arts and entertainment industry, they had to shut down temporarily during lockdowns, which meant a big loss in revenue.

Not only did they have to deal with financial struggles, but they also had to figure out how to teach dance online, which was a brand new challenge for many of them. Can you imagine trying to teach a dance class through a screen? It's definitely not the same as in-person classes.

On top of that, the lack of face-to-face interaction took a toll on the mental health and wellbeing of students and teachers. But despite all these challenges, many small regional dance schools have found ways to keep going. They've been creative and found ways to offer classes and training through online and socially-distanced in-person classes.

It's truly amazing to see the dance community come together and support each other during this tough time. They're still keeping the beat going and making sure students can continue to learn and grow in their passion for dance.

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“We are so pleased to be doing this show finally after it was twice cancelled due to the Pandemic”

— Martine Proll - Owner - Fitchett Proll Dance School

New Brighton Primary School

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Teddy Bear’s Picnic at Brindle

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Amazing Space at Stanley Primary Blackpool

In today's fast-paced world, where technology often dominates our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the simple joys and profound benefits of spending time outdoors, especially for our youngest generation. From the first steps they take, children are naturally drawn to explore the world around them, and there's no better place for this exploration than the great outdoors.

Stanley Primary School in Blackpool is a school that is blessed to have so much green space for their children to get all the benefits of outdoor play, learning sports and actvities. We spent a great day in beautiful summer weather photographing the school for their website.

When it comes to outdoor space this amazing school has it all. A huge sports field, a beautiful wooded area, an athletics race track for amazing sports days, a shaded chill areas to hang with friends, two green courtyards and an all weather sports area for those essential break time games of footie!

Let's delve into the boundless benefits that outdoor play offers for the health and well-being of young children.

Physical Health: One of the most immediate benefits of outdoor play is its positive impact on physical health. When children step outside, they engage in a myriad of activities that get their bodies moving. From running and jumping to climbing and swinging, outdoor play encourages physical activity that strengthens muscles, improves coordination, and promotes cardiovascular health. Moreover, exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, crucial for bone health and immune function, ensuring that children grow up strong and resilient.

Mental Well-being: Beyond the physical realm, outdoor play nurtures children's mental health in profound ways. Nature has a remarkable ability to soothe the mind and reduce stress levels. The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors create a sensory-rich environment that calms the nervous system and promotes relaxation. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression in children, offering a natural remedy for the stresses of modern life.

Social Development: Outdoor play is also a fertile ground for social development. When children venture outside, they encounter opportunities for interaction and collaboration with peers. Whether they're building sandcastles in the sandbox or playing tag in the park, outdoor play fosters the development of crucial social skills such as cooperation, communication, and empathy. Through unstructured play, children learn to navigate social dynamics, resolve conflicts, and forge meaningful connections with others.

Emotional Well-being: In addition to physical health and social development, outdoor play nurtures children's emotional well-being. The freedom and open space of outdoor environments provide children with a sense of autonomy and agency, empowering them to explore and express themselves freely. Whether they're chasing butterflies, splashing in puddles, or simply lying on the grass watching the clouds drift by, outdoor play allows children to connect with their emotions, cultivate a sense of wonder, and foster a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the benefits of outdoor play for young children are truly boundless. From enhancing physical health and mental well-being to promoting social development and emotional resilience, time spent outdoors is essential for the holistic growth and development of our youngest generation. As parents, educators, and caregivers, let's prioritize outdoor play as a fundamental part of childhood, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to explore, discover, and thrive in the great outdoors. After all, the world is their playground, and the possibilities are endless.

Need New Photography For Your School Website?

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