Glendon Farm Montessori and Forest School

We explored the wonders of nature by creating their own homemade tie-dye using natural colours. We gently cooked purple cabbage over the fire to release its beautiful blue-purple colour, before carefully draining the liquid to make our natural dye. They also used turmeric to create a vibrant yellow dye. The children were fascinated when they added vinegar to the cabbage dye and watched it magically change from purple-blue to a bright pink, giving them three wonderful colours to experiment with. This hands-on activity introduced early scientific concepts such as colour changes and simple chemical reactions, while also encouraging curiosity, creativity and problem-solving. It was a fantastic sensory experience that supported communication, observation skills and a deeper appreciation of the natural world

The children used natural treasures they discovered around the woodland to create their very own dragonflies. Using a stick, maple seeds for the wings and natural twine, they carefully brought their ideas to life, developing their fine motor skills, creativity and perseverance along the way. Activities like this encourage children to look closely at the natural world, noticing the beauty in the small things and using their imagination to transform them into something magical. Every dragonfly was unique, reflecting each child’s creativity and growing confidence in exploring and creating with nature -lead

As part of our annual Forest School trip, the children explored the beautiful nature walk at Glendon, where they enjoyed a wonderful pond dipping adventure in the local stream. Using nets, they carefully searched for a variety of fascinating water creatures and had the opportunity to observe them up close before gently returning them to their natural habitat. This hands-on experience sparked curiosity, encouraged careful observation and helped the children develop a deeper understanding of local wildlife and the importance of caring for our environment. It was a memorable day filled with exploration, discovery and a real connection to nature

Fire lighting is a special and meaningful part of our Forest School. Through carefully supervised experiences, the children learn that fire is something to be respected and enjoyed safely. They practise taking the fire safety position ( respect position ),listening carefully and following instructions, helping them to understand the importance of keeping themselves and others safe. As their confidence grows, the children also have the opportunity to practise lighting their own fires using a flint and steel, developing perseverance, coordination and patience as they learn this traditional skill. Alongside learning how a fire is built and lit, they strengthen their problem-solving skills, resilience and confidence. Sitting together around the fire also creates a wonderful opportunity to slow down, connect with one another and appreciate the calm and beauty of the natural world.

At Forest School, the children created their own wishing sticks using natural treasures they had carefully discovered. They developed their fine motor skills by twisting colourful pipe cleaners around their chosen sticks, strengthening the muscles needed for everyday tasks such as writing and dressing. This simple, mindful activity encouraged creativity, imagination and a deeper connection with the natural world. Once their wishing sticks were complete, each child took a quiet moment to make a special wish, giving them the opportunity to reflect, express their thoughts and embrace the magic and wonder that nature inspires. We hope you enjoy reading some of their lovely wishes

Here are some of their magical wish’s -

T- I wish for a big bouncing unicorn

S- A fairy wish

R- A love mumma

F- Wish I have everything I want

D- everything pink

F- To have a apple tree, pear tree and a banana plant in my garden

J- I wish to have a motorcross bike which is a led to race faster

O- A unicorn horn

Water, guttering, pots, pans and kitchen utensils create endless opportunities for fun and learning in the sunshine! From pouring and splashing to experimenting with water flow, the children have been exploring, problem-solving and working together while staying cool in the hot weather. Simple resources really do inspire the biggest adventures! 💦☀️

Skateboarding is such a fun way for young children to get active, build confidence, improve their balance and coordination, and learn that it’s okay to fall down and try again, even when it seems tricky. Every little achievement helps them grow, make new friends, and believe in themselves.

A huge shoutout to Trav at Illicit Skate School for donating a skateboard and for everything you do to support the next generation of skaters. Your kindness and passion are helping young people discover a love for skating, build confidence, and have loads of fun along the way. We really appreciate your support! 🛹💙
Illicit Skate Shop

“Small moments, big milestones capturing the heart of nursery life in 10 photos “

SHOWROUND OPPORTUNITIES

Come and discover how our very special nursery can give your child the best start in life!

Our skilled, caring and compassionate teachers use a gentle, respectful and child-led approach to nurture and inspire your children. Your child will develop amazing friendships, a deep self-confidence, connection to the natural world, self-motivation, resilience, and a love of learning in our enchanting nature-based setting.

We have a show-round on Thursday 16th July at 10.30am. We are full until September 2026, and are taking registrations to start then.

We accept government funding and can take children aged 2.5+ Monday-Thursday and children aged 18 months + on Fridays only.

Email [email protected] for more details and to book.

We used ropes to learn how to tie a timber hitch knot, developing their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration. They followed a sequence of steps, practised problem-solving when correcting mistakes, and showed perseverance as they refined their technique. This practical outdoor activity also built confidence, independence, and teamwork while introducing a useful bushcraft skill.