Pupils of Dunster First School and Timberscombe CoE First School were able to forget covid worries last week and enjoy a fun day of outdoor activities when the only reason to wash their hands was because they were muddy!

It was part of a week of wellbeing, relationship building and outdoor learning at Kilve Court Activity Centre, approved by Somerset County Council as a covid-secure centre with additional risk assessments and cleaning in place to make it safe for pupils to enjoy a positive outdoor experience.

Pupils and early years pre-school children from Timberscombe had a day of fun outdoor activities ranging from archery, low ropes climbing, sensory blindfold woodland walks, and a stream walk with lunch in the maze.

Head teacher Naomi Philp said: “We wanted our children to have fun, to laugh together and to have a day where they could forget the worries and reality of the pandemic situation that even these very young pupils are acutely aware of.

“School is different for them – the layout of classrooms, lunchtimes, and the hand-washing routines. We wanted them to be in an environment where they could just enjoy each other’s company and the activities. 

“For the week, we washed our hands because we were muddy! The centre staff are amazing at risk assessing so each activity was safely cleaned and prepared.

“This day was invaluable for us to spend time with each pupil. Outdoor learning is key for us at both schools and we are lucky with the immediate surrounding areas that we can access such a rich variety, but this week offered us the additional activities to make this extra special.

“A big thank you to all the staff for making the week safe and immensely fun!”

More photos in today’s Free Press.