Last September we set more than 5000 pupils across the UK a challenge – could they complete food, farming and nature challenges to reach 50 points in their Countryside Classroom Passport?
The challenges, ranging from woodland visits to tasting something new, represent some of the skills, knowledge and experiences that we at Countryside Classroom believe all children should have by the time they leave school. To add an extra incentive, each passport with 50 points or more is worth one entry into our schools prize draw, so 30 pupils equals 30 chances to win.
If you haven’t used the passport yet there’s still time to download it and get started completing challenges, but hurry because the deadline to receive your entries is Wednesday 24th February. To help make up those extra points, here are some ideas for building the countryside into your everyday teaching.
In Maths, ask pupils to invent a recipe of their own (read chef Idris’s top tips) and work out how much of each ingredient they will need. The Love Food Hate Waste portion calculator will help with estimating serving sizes. Then, can they change the quantities according to how many people are eating?
In English, ask pupils to practise persuasive writing by designing a poster or leaflet all about a farm visit. Use our places to visit page to find a farm nearby or, if you haven’t got chance, take your class on LEAF’s Virtual Farm Walk.
In Science, take your class on a pond dipping expedition. Identify the plants and creatures you find using these Spotting Sheets from the Wildlife Trusts, before arranging them into food chains and webs to learn more about aquatic ecosystems.
If you’ve got a good idea of your own or want to share your experience of using the Countryside Classroom Passport, get in touch by email or on Twitter. Completed passports can be sent to Countryside Classroom, Arthur Rank Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, CV8 2LG. Don't forget to download an entry form.
