Space to Run, Grow, and Explore
Botley School is exceptionally fortunate to have such expansive grounds. Our Upper and Lower Fields provide a completely different experience to the enclosed intimacy of the Woodland or the Quad.
Here, under the open sky, children have the freedom to run, shout, and burn off energy on a grand scale.
The vastness of the fields allows for large-scale Forest School games that build coordination, strategy, and teamwork.
Big Games: We use this space for high-energy classics like "Spiders & Flies" and the "Screaming Game"—activities that let children release energy in a fun, controlled environment.
Physical Skills: From "Welly Wanging" (a firm favourite!) to navigating uneven ground, the fields are vital for developing gross motor skills and physical resilience.
Collaboration: Without walls or fences to hem them in, children learn to set their own boundaries and work together over larger distances.
A symbol of hope and stewardship. Located next to the Apple Grove, our Jubilee Orchard was planted by the children in 2022 as part of the Queen's Green Canopy initiative for the Platinum Jubilee.
Caring for these fruit trees teaches the children valuable lessons about where our food comes from and the patience required to nurture nature. Despite the challenges of hot summers, the orchard stands as a testament to the children’s resilience and commitment to improving our environment.
While the centre of the field is for running, the edges are for growing.
The Hedgerows: The fields are bordered by species-rich hedgerows containing hawthorn, field maple, and blackthorn. These "wild edges" provide essential food and shelter for insects and birds.
Woodland Trust Partnership: We are proud to participate in The Woodland Trust's school programme. Every year, we receive hundreds of free saplings covering a wide variety of native species. Our pupils work together to plant these across the site, actively extending our wildlife corridors and ensuring that our grounds grow greener with every generation.
Looking ahead to next year, we are planning an exciting new feature for the lower field: a traditional Cretan Labyrinth.
Phase One: Initially, this will be created by cutting winding paths into the long grass, offering a sensory walking experience.
Phase Two: Over time, we hope to evolve this into a permanent earthwork structure by piling up earth to define the path.
Curriculum Connection: The labyrinth will follow the classic 7-circuit design, directly connecting to the children's learning in Year 6 English, where they explore Greek mythology. It will bring their classroom learning to life, offering a space for storytelling, mindfulness, and "journeying" to the centre.
We are also excited to support the Friends of Botley School (FOBs) in their current fundraising campaign. They are working hard to raise funds for a new Adventure Playground Climbing Frame. Planned for a later date, this dynamic new structure will be situated on the field, providing a challenging and fun environment for children to develop their strength and climbing skills during playtimes.