Bicker Preparatory School and Early Years

Bicker Preparatory School is proud to announce the addition of our own private nature reserve and field study site.

Mayfields Reserve is an off site venue which classes will visit throughout the year travelling by minibus.

	The site was created in 2004 when approx 6,800 native broadleaf hardwood tree and shrub species were planted. This effectively constitutes around 3 acres of private woodland. We have around 2 acres of water consisting of two ponds in landscaped grounds amounting to approx 6 acres. The children have access to kitchen and toilet facilities and a log cabin which serves as the School Field Centre.
Our Nature Reserve will provide the children with opportunities to manage risk in a controlled environment, working within small groups with experienced members of staff. We are fortunate to be able to draw upon the scientific, botanical and biological expertise of Mr R. Page as we learn about the natural environment. Mr Page has an inspirational way of teaching children, and extensive knowledge of freshwater ecology and the care and management of its associated habitats.
	Winter at Mayfields Nature Reserve. Our studies can be lead by the questions children ask. What happens to trees in Winter? Where do the animals go? What are those prints in the snow? How can I tell an oak tree from a sycamore? Why are there so many nests in Winter? Will the birds use that nest again? *Why is this soil sticking to my boots?
Spring time studies. Children ask us: * Have the fish survived? Can I see? * Why are the birds so busy? * What is this grass called? * Can I grow something?
	Summer Field Studies. * What will happen to these seeds? * Where is the dragon fly going? * What is the name of this tree? * Have you any creepy crawlies here? * Can I use a microscope?
Autumn fun at Mayfield Reserve. Why are there so many trees here? M ay I plant a tree? What is this berry? Can people eat this nut? What is happening in the pond now it is colder? How can I help the environment? We look forward to drawing together the year's work to help our children to respect and take care of the natural world.

Wildlife and scenes from Mayfields Nature Reserve.

Class 4 and 5 have the most amazing time today (20/01/12) at Mayfields Nature Reserve. Everyone came warmly dressed, so the weather was no problem at all. We tracked voles, foxes, munt jack and roe deer, rabbits and swans! We found animal footprints, droppings, chewed grass etc. The children also loved disecting the owl pellets and identifying what animals had been eaten. We decided that the owls had eaten 3 animals in an 8 hour period. The hot chocolate was delicious and we would like to thank Mr and Mrs Page Junior for all their hard work in planning the day. We are all looking forward to our next trip.



	These photographs show Classes 4 and 5 (Years 3 - 6) enjoying the School Nature Reserve in January 2012. They travel to the reserve by minibus. The Parents' Association have very kindly agreed to fund future trips to the reserve from their funds. Class 3 (Years 1 and 3) are now looking forward to their trip in March.
The field study centre is warm and well equipped. It is a lovely place to dry off on a rainy day and then to study the things we have collected from the Nature Reserve.

February 2012.

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