Forest School 

We have been continuing our observations of the changes in the season in Forest School, and sessions over the past two weeks have involved a lot of discussion about the ways that humans impact the natural environment.

We decided that one of the most obvious ways our Macedon Primary community impact the space we learn and play in, is in the amount of plastic litter we create. Sadly, the evidence is all around us.

Students in grades four to six had a think about ways to solve the problem. Whilst we do have soft plastic bins around the school and in classrooms, a lot of waste either blows out of the bins, falls out of our pockets while we play or is helped out of the bins by the very resourceful crows who live around school. We decided that the very best way to avoid plastic food wrappers is to simply not bring any to school.

Grade one and two students resolved to bring food that doesn’t need to be wrapped. Some suggestions from students were vegetables and fruits that come already wrapped in Mother Nature’s skins and peels. Grade three and four students thought it would be a great plan to have a weekend baking session and bring baked goods in lunch boxes. Some suggestions were mini quiches, sausage rolls, bikkies or cake in a reusable container where no wrapping is needed….better for the planet and better for our growing bodies!!

Grade five and six students made the very good observation that even sandwiches don’t need to be wrapped if they’re in an airtight lunch box or could be put in a reusable wax wrap. Some of this year’s grade six students had the joy of making wax wraps from scratch with Miss Pitt last year and we plan to have a go at making some again next term in Forest School.

As always, I would continue to request that families try to procure a pair of gumboots or some other form of waterproof boots for their child or children to allow for messy and muddy play on Forest School days. If anyone has spare egg cartons they may be willing to donate for egg collecting, they would be gratefully received too. Thank you in advance.

Ginny Tulloch 😊

Forest School Specialist Teacher