The Pond

Our pond is a bonus for any school to have. It's a good size, it's a good depth, but it's concrete all around and not very nature friendly. Digging it out is not an option so we have to try and rewild the area and the margins. This will be an ongoing project throughout the year and any advice will be gratefully received! 

There's a lot of pond weed beneath the surface and what we think is 'Duckweed' spreading across the water. There was spawn, froglets and the odd toad spotted in there across the last school year, but there is no easy access in or out for any amphibians. So let's start with that. 

The trees in this wildlife area have lots of fallen branches, and there are larger logs against the fence. The beech hedge is 'trimmed' via the lane outside with a huge vehicle and the debris is scattered around. dragging and rolling finally meant long and lean branches could span the pond and dip into the water to allow birds to drink and wash, and give access out for any amphibian visiting or born here!



The soil is shallow around the pond so we built up banks of fallen leaves that we hope to lay some turf over when we lift the grass to create new wildflower beds. The logs should also discourage children from getting too close! This area is perfect to develop as a 'Wildlife Area'. A small group of Year 4 children who have some time out of class on Tuesdays are taking on the project. Together we will work through the RSPB Wild Challenges and make this area wildlife and class friendly.

With one eye on the curriculum and the other on creating homes for nature we will aim to create a useful and usable outdoor classroom where the children can learn all about their local environment and hear Nature's Voice.