2 March
Outdoor Learning Highlights at Aurora Hedgeway School
At Aurora Hedgeway School, outdoor learning is much more than time spent outside. It provides students with opportunities to develop confidence, creativity, practical life skills and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Over the last few months students have embraced a wide range of environmental projects, conservation activities and hands-on experiences, achieving several prestigious awards along the way.
Hedgehog heroes
Students worked enthusiastically towards the Hedgehog Friendly Campus Gold Award, approaching the challenge with determination and completing every task to a high standard while learning about the importance of hedgehog conservation.
One of the highlights was a hedgehog drawing competition, which inspired plenty of creativity and helped deepen students’ understanding of protecting local wildlife.
From seed to plate
Students launched a range of planting projects, carefully considering how they would use the crops once they were ready to harvest. Gardening Club members especially enjoyed harvesting fresh produce, with some samples being enjoyed straight away and the rest delivered to the school kitchens to be used in lunches and cooking lessons.
These experiences gave students valuable gardening skills while encouraging sustainable food practices.
Becoming eco explorers
To understand the health of local ecosystems, students carried out bug counts and pond species surveys. These investigations developed their observation skills and encouraged a strong sense of environmental responsibility.
Spring survival skills
Students built bird nests, which later became hiding places for an exciting chocolate egg hunt. They also explored den building, using natural materials to create camouflage shelters for bird watching and learning about animal habitats and survival.
Watching the frog lifecycle
Students had the opportunity to observe the frog lifecycle first-hand, following their development before releasing the frogs back into their natural habitat – a memorable experience that brought science to life.
Foraging and feasting
Outdoor learning also included foraging for native plants such as nettles and dandelions. Students used their finds to bake spring cakes, helping them understand seasonal changes and the edible potential of plants found in nature.
"Their enthusiasm and dedication to caring for the environment continues to inspire us every day." Cheryll Hall, Outdoor Learning Co-ordinator
Award-winning outdoor learning
Students' efforts culminated in several notable achievements, including the prestigious Woodland Trust Gold Award.
Activities such as tree dressing and collaborative tree planting projects, both on the school site and alongside a local Scout group, promoted environmental responsibility while strengthening community connections.
Forest School sessions encouraged students to create woodland champions using natural materials they had gathered, while knot-tying and willow-weaving workshops helped them develop practical skills and connect with traditional crafts.
Outdoor learning also extended to the campfire, where students prepared a variety of delicious treats, including chocolate twists, cheesy potatoes, healthy fruit and vegetable skewers and the ever-popular cookie dough.
These projects also contributed to students achieving the RHS Level 5 Gardening Award, recognising their dedication to growing food, maintaining wildlife-friendly spaces and caring for the environment.
Along the way, students developed resilience, teamwork and a lasting appreciation for biodiversity. The school’s thriving polytunnel stands as a symbol of their hard work and pride in everything they have accomplished.
Eco-Schools Update
Working towards the Eco-Schools Green Flag with Distinction
Over the past year, Hedgeway School has continued its journey towards the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award with Distinction.
Leading the way is the school's Eco-Schools Committee, made up of 13 passionate students who have championed projects focused on global citizenship, biodiversity and marine conservation.
Through assemblies, workshops and creative campaigns, they have inspired environmental awareness across the whole school community.
Learning beyond the classroom
Educational visits have played an important role in enriching students' learning. Trips to Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Botanical Gardens provided hands-on experiences that complemented studies in science, geography and history.
At the aquarium, students explored marine ecosystems and learned about ocean conservation, while the botanical gardens offered opportunities to study plant diversity and discover the cultural importance of different species.
These experiences helped bring classroom learning to life and inspired an even greater appreciation for the natural world.
Planning for a greener future
The Eco-Schools Committee met regularly throughout the year to plan projects, review progress and ensure their initiatives remained meaningful and inclusive.
Applications are now open for students who would like to join the committee in September. Many current members are keen to continue their work, and the school looks forward to welcoming new students who are passionate about creating positive change.
With so much already achieved, the future of the Eco-Schools programme at Aurora Hedgeway School looks brighter than ever.
"Seeing students grow in confidence, develop practical skills and build a genuine connection with the natural world has been incredibly rewarding." Cheryll Hall, Outdoor Learning Co-ordinator
