Forest school Andy (with some help from the children) had created a wonderful round house out of hazel and woven willow in the new sensory garden. Although the roof was yet to be added, the willow walls looked very attractive – it somehow seemed a shame he was determined to cover it all in mud!

The children, myself and Andy spent an enjoyable and messy day rendering the structure with a sloppy mixture of soil, clay and straw. The children adored the activity, handling, stomping and smearing the natural materials.

The joy & learning was reflected in the use of animated language:

“soft & cold” child rubbing the loose soil through fingers

“Is this beautiful?” child discovers a pebble in the soil.

“this is fun – gooey!” child breaking the soft clay into smaller lumps for mixing in the soil.

“big & beautiful” child grabs a large lump of wet cob and holds it up.