Over the past three weeks, Mr. Adams's class were delighted to be given the opportunity to invite local artist and horticulturalist Ginny Moore to Stepaside CP School. The class wanted to complete an art project based on wild flowers and plants found in the school grounds and school garden, using batik on silk material.

The children had the experience of studying and observing wild flowers and plants. Ginny encouraged them to look closely at each part of the plant, from roots to petals, using her vast knowledge of the subject. The children chose a plant or flower they liked and sketched them in-situ, paying close attention to the shape of the leaves, petals and roots.

The children learned an enormous amount about the different plants found on the school grounds, such as Dandelion, Ground Ivy, Lady's Smock, Celandine, Daisy, Plantain, Primoses and Violets.

Once the children were happy with their design, they used hot wax and a Tjanting tool to copy onto pure silk material, which was very exciting. When the wax was dry, they painted their design and decided on which colours to use, using specialist paints.

The children were fascinated to see the colours spreading and mixing together over the silk, and that the paint would not go through the wax! The children were thrilled with their unique piece of artwork and learned a lot throughout the project.

Mr. Adams said: "This has been a great opportunity for the children to create something different through art. They learned a lot during this project, experiencing techniques they have never used before and the finished product looks amazing."

PUPILS EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE TRENCHES

On Wednesday, May 13, Class 5 went on an educational visit to Morfa Bay, Pendine. This term, Mr. Adams's class has been studying World War I as part of the curriculum and were very keen to see what a World War I trench was like. The instructors guided the children through the maze of trenches, telling stories and providing interesting information in a lively way that engaged and fascinated the children. They had the opportunity to experience the harsh reality of life in a frontline trench, such as where the soldiers slept, what they ate and their toilet facilities!

Mr. Adams said: "This was a fantastic opportunity for children to learn life in the trenches in World War I. It really brought what we have learned in the classroom to life. The guides were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable, telling stories and facts that made it a wonderful experience for all the children. It was an unforgettable experience and I can't wait to go again!"

The children saw and held original weapons such as rifles, grenades and bullets; they also tried on different helmets and gas masks. Climbing the trench ladders enabled them to imagine what it would be like to go 'over the top' and they enjoyed using a periscope to see into No-Man's Land. The class also saw the Officers Mess and how different it was for them with a bed, warm fire and generous rations.

All of the children were inspired by this visit and enjoyed every minute. Some children said: "It was a great experience seeing what conditions soldiers in War War I had to go through, we got to hold grenades, rifles and all different weapons. It was a fun-filled day at Morfa Bay."