At Thatcham Park, Earth Day provides a valuable opportunity for pupils to reflect on their responsibility to care for the world around them. Each year, pupils take part in meaningful, hands-on activities that help them to understand how small actions can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment.

As part of our Earth Day celebrations, pupils across the school engaged in a range of creative and purposeful activities. Younger pupils explored the natural environment through walks around the school grounds, gathering materials to create bug hotels that provide safe habitats for wildlife. Other pupils made bird feeders using a variety of seeds, helping to support local bird populations beyond the school. Older pupils created seed bombs using wildflower seeds, which were planted around the school grounds to encourage the growth of flowers that attract bees and butterflies.

These experiences helped pupils to develop a deeper understanding of the importance of caring for creation. They also encouraged pupils to reflect on their own actions, considering practical ways they can make a difference, such as reducing waste, conserving resources and being mindful of the environment in their daily lives. 

This work is rooted in our vision of encouraging one another and building each other up. By taking part in Earth Day, pupils learn that they have both the responsibility and the power to make a positive contribution to the world around them. Through this, they grow in respect for creation, develop a sense of stewardship and begin to recognise their role in shaping a more sustainable future for their community and beyond.

Bridge Potato Challenge Success

The Bridge children had a fantastic opportunity to visit Newbury Showground twice this year to take part in the Potato Challenge, organised by the Newbury and District Agricultural Society.

During our first visit, the children planted bags with two varieties of seed potatoes that they had carefully chitted beforehand. Back at school, they took great responsibility for looking after them, making sure they were regularly watered and well cared for.

On our return visit, the excitement grew as we unearthed the potatoes and weighed our harvest. We were competing against other local schools, so the children were thrilled and very proud to come second overall!

To celebrate our efforts, we enjoyed a range of fun activities, including making potato salad, decorating potato cakes and tasting different flavours of crisps. The day was made even better when the sun came out just in time for our picnic.

It was a wonderful experience that combined teamwork, care for living things and a real sense of achievement.