Ilminster Avenue Nursery School are looking forward to further developing their outdoor learning environments this term, building on the success of their existing sensory garden. Last year, the nursery school received a £700 grant from Wild Spaces, which enabled them to plant wildflowers, grasses and a variety of plants to create a courtyard area designed to attract butterflies and moths. This space has become a valuable part of their early years provision, supporting children’s exploration, curiosity and understanding of nature in line with the EYFS.
The team will be using their upcoming INSET day to maintain the courtyard, ensuring that it continues to flourish and remains as beautiful as it was last year.
This year, Ilminster Avenue Nursery School have been awarded a further £5,000 grant to increase biodiversity in another part of their site. During the Easter holidays, the barked area in the large garden will be transformed, with Bricks and Bloom creating a new space for growing plants, herbs and vegetables. The plans include planters with seating, a sunshade and a bird hide, offering new opportunities for outdoor learning and observation. The area will also be protected from bikes, making it particularly safe and accessible for children who require additional physical support.
The nursery school are very excited to see these improvements take shape and to continue offering rich, engaging outdoor experiences for their children.