Forest School

This week, our Foundation to Year 2 students have been busy planting pea seeds and observing their growth in the classroom. We discovered that seeds need three key things to grow: water, sunlight, and the right temperature. Our curious learners had fascinating discussions about how seeds "know" when the conditions are right, how they figure out which way is up, and even how they can grow without soil! To our amazement, the seeds soaked overnight started germinating the very next day. I wonder how big they’ll be by next Monday?

Meanwhile, our Year 5 and 6 students have been hard at work on their passion projects at Middle Gully, putting their planning, measuring, and teamwork skills to the test. The maze is nearing completion, and Annie has begun resurrecting the bike track, ensuring it is clear and safe from overhanging branches and debris. Her initiative and dedication have been fantastic to see! Also, the garden beds near the hot house are transforming before our eyes and will soon be ready for replanting.

The Year 2 to Year 4 students took full advantage of the cleared beds, using their maths and problem-solving skills to measure the garden area with trundle wheels and design new layouts on grid paper. They had to calculate whether we had enough railway sleepers to frame the entire space or if we had enough to stack them to create raised beds. It was a tricky challenge, as groups had to factor in pathways and work around existing trees.

We've also been auditing the nesting boxes at Middle Gully, checking which ones need repairs, which are already home to some furry friends, and where new ones could be placed. A big thank you to Matilda, who generously shared the "drey" she built with her mum, a special nest designed for Ringtail possums. More details are below.

It’s inspiring to see our young custodians of the land taking action to protect and preserve our native flora and fauna. We can’t wait to see what they achieve next!

Cheers,

Lisa Pickles

Forest School Science Specialist Teacher

Possum nests

On Tuesday 25th of March, Matilda C and Mabel P went around all the classes that were at school that day, to tell them about possum nests, because we will be making some of these and putting them in Middle Gully. We gave each classroom some sheets to tell them how to make the possum nests .  

All you need is, 2 hanging baskets (from Bunnings Warehouse), Cable ties, wire cutters and gloves. 

Here are some tips if you are going to be making this at home. 

1. Possums will bring their own bedding materials so you don't need to put anything in it.
2. Position the entrance towards a tree trunk for easy access. 
3. Monitor the nest from a distance to ensure it is being used by possum.
4. Avoid handling the nest after installation to minimise stress on wildlife.
5. Hang the nest near nearby native trees and shrubs so that the possums get food sources.

 By Matilda and Mabel :)