On Friday, December 13, 2024, we had the pleasure of welcoming children from St Mary’s and St Benedict’s in Coventry to Abbey Fields. Although we knew the children were scheduled to perform their nativity play that morning, and with the bitterly cold and wet weather, we checked with the Headteacher, Mrs Macdonald, to see if the children still wanted to visit. The response was a resounding “Yes”. They were all very excited and determined not to miss out on the opportunity to walk around Abbey Fields.
Unfortunately, there were not many green leaves left to help us identify the trees, but there was still much to see and learn. Subjects covered with the children:
- Why are trees so important?
- Herbs in the Church garden.
- Identifying trees by their twigs.
- Evergreen vs deciduous trees.
- The importance of worms.
- Moles and their molehills.
- Tree maintenance.
- The importance of creating insect and animal habitats.
- Why is proper bird feed better than bread?
- Mistletoe and folklore.
The children always love feeding the ducks. They are mesmerised by the noise of the ducks and their incessant appetite for food. The children would stay there for hours if given the chance.
And finally, another round of the most exciting and well-known competition: Pooh Sticks. The children love it although the organisation always needs the special intervention of Mrs Macdonald to calm the children down.
Did I say finally? How can I forget the swings and slides at the end of our walk?
How do teachers teach all week? After two hours, we are exhausted and just struggle to get to the Old Bakery for some liquid sustenance!
Merry Christmas St Mary’s & St Benedict’s. See you next year!
Bart