The classrooms of Bumblebees and Butterflies of Thistle Hill Academy were abuzz this term as children delved into a geography-focused topic centered under the engaging theme ‘Where I Live’. Kicking off the term, both classes took a dynamic educational journey around their local area, with maps guiding them as they explored and identified various human and physical features in their community.
In a captivating treasure hunt twist, the children were set on a materials hunt within the school. This lesson saw the young Bumblebees and Butterflies turn into keen-eyed detectives, identifying and finding different materials, each discovery seamlessly weaving into their broader understanding of their environment and its geographic elements.
The Bumblebees not only engaged with aerial maps to reconstruct their local area but also sharpened their directional language skills, directing peers through a recreated map landscape. Meanwhile, the Butterflies took a digital leap into geography using Google Earth, obtaining a unique bird’s-eye view of their community, reinforcing their knowledge of maps and directions through this immersive, technological experience.
Through engaging treasure hunts, interactive map-reading exercises, and the innovative use of technology, Year 1 at Thistle Hill have not only expanded their knowledge base but also acquired a set of skills that will be instrumental in their future educational journey.
Thistle Hill Academy is holding an Early Years Open Evening on Wednesday 4th October 2023 at 5pm for parents of children who will be starting school in September 2024. To find out more visit Thistle Hill Academy.
