Dumfries House

The P1-5 were very excited about their trip to Dumfries House. We went to the Valentin’s Education Farm where the children took part in different workshops through out the day. After introductions and a safety talk the children went to feed the different birds getting up close and learning about the different kinds of chickens, ducks and turkeys. The children were able to talk to the turkeys as they always responded when you copied their calls.

We found out that the Shetland ducks were nearly extinct but they are now thriving at Valentin’s Farm. We also made connections to our Viking topic as the Vikings brought these ducks over on their long boats.

After feeding the birds we got up close to some of the other farm animals and were able to touch and pet them. We saw pigs, sheep and a horse. The children were eager to experience the different animals and feel their different textures. We also got to see the pallets that owls regurgitate which had small animal bones and fur.

The children enjoyed their lunch and then we were straight into how soil is produced. The children found out that soil need micro organisms and other creatures to help break it down into nutrients for the plants. Worms help make healthy soil. The children then had the opportunity to go out and collect worms. We got to look at the worms up close and the children found other kinds of mini beasts.

The children had a fun filled day and even had the chance to hold chicks and pet the mother chicken. The last activity before heading back to the bus was feely boxes you can see from the children’s faces that this was a great activity with lots of surprises in stall.

Thank you to our parent helpers they were a super help throughout the day. This was such a wonderful outdoor learning event and the children enjoyed every aspect of the day including the bus ride.

UNCRC Article 17 – Access to information

UNCRC Article 28 – Rights to outdoor learning

SHANARRI – Safe, Healthy, Active, Achieving, Responsible