Month: May 2026

Pupils visited Williamson’s Park to develop their geographical fieldwork skills through practical, outdoor learning. During the visit the children used simple positional and directional vocabulary such as near, far, next to, behind and in front to describe locations to their partners (e.g. The tree is next to the bush). This supported early understanding of giving and following directions, which will prepare them for future lessons using compass points (north, south, east and west).

Task 1

1. Stand with your partner.
2. Choose something to look at (tree, path, bench).
3. Point to it.
4. Say where it is using direction words:
   • near, far, next to, behind, in front, left, right
5. Say a full sentence:
   • The tree is next to the path.
6. Swap roles and choose something new.
7. Do this 3 times

While exploring the park, pupils applied their knowledge of human and physical geographical features, successfully identifying and discussing elements within the environment. Cross-curricular links were also made with science, as pupils observed that the sun (a light source) was reflecting off the water, helping them understand that water reflects light rather than producing it.

In a follow-up activity, pupils directed their partners to chosen locations using simple directional language such as forwards, backwards, left and right. This practical experience will support their progression to using compasses to guide partners around the school environment in future lessons.

Task 2

1. One person is the leader, one is the follower.
2. The leader gives directions using clear words.
3. The follower listens and follows exactly.
4. Use these words:
   • forward
   • stop
   • left
   • right
   • next to
   • near
5. Walk safely and slowly.
6. Swap roles.
7. Repeat 3 times.

We had a lovely day on our class trip to Middleton Sands, where we enjoyed the coastal environment together. The children really enjoyed exploring the beach and taking part in a fun rockpooling activity with Mr Farnworth. Throughout this, they were very curious and carefully searched through the rock pools, discovering crabs and other small sea creatures. We then spent time talking about what we found, and the children enjoyed discussing whether the creatures were alive or dead, showing great interest in what they could explore around them.

Throughout the day, we encouraged lots of discussion about our surroundings. The children shared what they could see, hear, smell, and feel, helping them to really connect with the environment. They also collected a variety of natural items from the beach, which sparked further conversations and curiosity.

We made the most of the different terrains, walking along the sand and over the rocks, which was great for developing their gross motor skills. The children showed good balance and coordination as they explored.

After all that exploring, we sat down together to enjoy a picnic lunch, which was a nice time to talk about the beach and the things we could see. We then visited the park, where the children continued to build friendships and took part in activities with their friends. It was wonderful to see them working together, sharing, and having fun.

Overall, it was a fantastic day filled with learning, exploration, and lots of smiles!