OUTDOOR learning staff at Woodlea Primary School, Whitehill, welcomed the children of Forest Bears Pre-school for a games session in their extensive woodland.

The children enjoyed participating in numerous activities, including a Gruffalo trail, a bug hunt, leaf and bark rubbing and creating clay hedgehogs and tree sprites.

“The children had a great time,” said Woodlea headteacher Marcella Dobson.

“We are very lucky to be able to offer such outdoor experiences to the children in our school and we are beginning to seek ways that we can extend the use of our woodland environment to other local establishments. Children love being outdoors and we can offer a safe outdoor environment to extend their natural curiosity with skilled woodland practitioners who can get the most out of the children.”

Wendy Garforth, Forest Bears Pre-school manager, added: “The children and adults from Forest Bears Pre-school (which meets at the Forest Community Centre) enjoyed an afternoon of woodland fun at Woodlea School.

“The children took part in craft activities, physical challenges and a Gruffalo hunt. The afternoon finished with hot chocolate and a story the children interacted with. It was a wonderful experience for them.”

* Anyone looking to enjoy similar woodland experiences should call outdoor school leader Rob Bonner on 01420 476342.