Tucked alongside the Woodland, Botley School's Nature Reserve offers a tranquil haven, a place where the natural world unfolds its wonders for both children and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. This special space, once known simply as "the Pen," underwent a remarkable transformation during the challenging times of the 2020/21 Covid lockdown. The serendipitous discovery of several bee orchids, a rare and beautiful sight, blooming amidst the unassuming grasses, sparked a vision: to create a dedicated nature reserve, a sanctuary for local flora and fauna, and a living classroom for the children of Botley School. The existing plastic play equipment was thoughtfully relocated to the more active Apple Grove, allowing the designated area to regenerate naturally, embracing the unhurried rhythms of the wild and allowing nature to reclaim its space.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Ecosystem: A Tapestry of Life
Since its transformation, the Nature Reserve has blossomed into a dynamic and thriving ecosystem, a living laboratory where Forest School classes can witness the intricate workings of the natural world first-hand. Children have delighted in observing a fascinating array of wildlife, gaining invaluable insights into the interconnectedness of life. They've witnessed nesting mice diligently preparing their cosy underground homes, marvelling at the instinctual drive to nurture and protect their young. They've observed industrious ants, those tireless architects of the insect world, constructing their intricate and complex nests, learning about community and collaboration in the process. Butterflies, with their delicate wings and vibrant colours, flutter through the air, adding splashes of beauty to the landscape and serving as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature. Grasshoppers, those acrobats of the meadow, leap and chirp amongst the tall grasses, their presence a sign of a healthy and thriving ecosystem.
In 2022, the students of Year 6 Cedar Class made a valuable contribution to the reserve's biodiversity by designing and building a bug hotel. This ingenious structure provides shelter and nesting sites for a variety of insects and invertebrates, further enriching the reserve's ecosystem and offering children a fascinating glimpse into the hidden world of these tiny creatures.
A Unified Space for Exploration, Reflection, and Growth: Bridging Woodland and Reserve
In February 2023, a significant step was taken to enhance the educational opportunities offered by these natural spaces: the Woodland and the Nature Reserve were thoughtfully combined, creating a single, larger, and more diverse area for Forest School sessions. This unification allows children to seamlessly transition between the cool, shaded depths of the ancient woodland and the more open, sun-drenched expanses of the reserve, experiencing the contrasting yet complementary habitats.
They can now explore the diverse micro-environments, observe wildlife in its natural setting across a wider range of habitats, and find quiet, secluded spots for personal reflection and contemplation, fostering a sense of peace and connection with nature. The combined space also provides opportunities for physical challenges and skill development, such as balancing on carefully placed stepping logs, enhancing both physical and mental well-being.
To further enrich the biodiversity and aesthetic beauty of this unified space, plans are in place to seed the area with a vibrant mix of native wildflowers. This will create a colourful and inviting landscape, attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects, and providing an even more enriching experience for both wildlife and the children who explore this special place.
The beautifully crafted Hedgerow Arch now stands as the welcoming gateway to this unified realm, inviting all to enter and discover the hidden wonders that lie within.