Woodland Wonders

Welcome to Woodland Wonders, an interactive fun learning experience from Crossgates Primary School designed for our families. Over the coming seasons, familes will have the opportunity to explore the seasons through stories and activities.  

We believe outdoor learning strengthens wellbeing and supports classroom learning in meaningful ways. By connecting forest school experiences and the natural world, Woodland Wonders offers a positive, practical experience for families across our school community.

Thank you for your continued support—together, we can help our children grow into caring, informed learners who appreciate the environment around them.

We hope you thoroughly enjoy participating in these activities as a family, and we warmly encourage you to share your experiences on Tapestry for us to view and celebrate.

 

  Spring                              Discovering the Magic of the Humble Nettle!

Hello Families!

When you think of stinging nettles, your first thought is probably about itchy ankles and pesky garden weeds. But what if we told you that this prickly, misunderstood plant is actually one of nature’s greatest hidden treasures?

Far from just a nuisance, the stinging nettle is a powerhouse of the countryside. Here is why we absolutely love them:

• Nature’s Superfood: Nettles are absolutely packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. They are more nutritious than spinach!

• Wildlife Heroes: They are vital to our ecosystem and serve as the favorite food for the caterpillars of some of our most beautiful butterflies.

• Free and Delicious: For centuries, people have foraged nettles to make incredible teas, medicines, and rich, vibrant meals.

 

Woven Words Listen to the story "The Boy and the Nettle".

It is a heartwarming countryside tale about a young boy who is sent to gather nettles but is terrified of getting stung. It teaches a beautiful, timeless lesson: when we face our fears with hesitation, we often get hurt. But when we approach our challenges with boldness and courage, they lose their sting entirely!

Make sure you subscribe to the Woodland Wonders Woven Words You Tube channel to listen to Mrs. Dry's stories.  

 

Family Fun Why not go on a family foraging adventure?

Grab some thick gardening gloves, a pair of scissors, and a basket, and head out to carefully snip the top leaves of your local nettles. (Remember: as long as you wear your gloves and are bold, you won't get stung!).

Foraging Guide 

 

 

Whisk it up Nettle Soup 

Once you get them home, cooking the leaves completely destroys the sting, leaving you with the perfect ingredient for a delicious, bright green, and incredibly healthy Nettle Soup.

Recipe