Unseasonably mild weather and the sound of Christmas music set the scene for a week of festive celebrations at Peacock Lodge, where children from across the early years embraced the spirit of the season through outdoor learning, crafts and storytelling.
Kindergarten One kicked off the week with a burst of creativity, transforming simple jars into charming Rudolf decorations. Little learners scooped soil, arranged twig antlers and focused intently on their handiwork. Laughter filled the lodge as they discovered a melted snowman made from gloop—complete with stick arms, conker buttons and a bright orange carrot nose. The session ended on a high with a lively reading of Father Christmas Needs a Wee, prompting plenty of giggles as the children settled in for story time.
By Tuesday, gusty winds and rain swept in, but the WOW toddlers were undeterred. Sheltering inside Peacock Lodge, they explored the STEM room, building with magnetic pieces and completing Christmas puzzles. As it was their final session before the holidays, the children enjoyed a flurry of festive crafts, from jingling bell sticks to decorating mini Christmas trees—and even revisited the ever-popular gloop snowman.
Kindergarten Two added a musical touch to the week, proudly shaking their handmade jingle bell sticks as they sang and danced to “Jingle Bells.” Outdoors, Christmas lunches were cooked in the crooked house, while a parade of elves and Santas emerged during a spirited dress-up session.
At Forest School, Kindergarten One listened to the classic tale Mog’s Christmas before heading into the woods to craft pine cone trees and make seasonal artwork using fir branches.
The week concluded with a special joint Forest School gathering for Reception, where pupils celebrated earning their first outdoor learning award of the year—the Autumn Challenge Badge—recognising their achievements throughout the term.
