13^th April – 22^nd May 2026

We bounced into the term with lots of excitement, shiny new resources and inviting new areas to explore. One of our favourite additions has been our growing area, where our Little Owls have been busy planting fruits and vegetables, getting their hands muddy and discovering just how magical it is to watch things grow. Add in plenty of loose parts play and it is safe to say the term has started with curiosity, creativity and lots of fun!

We have also been very lucky to welcome some very special visitors who have made this half term extra memorable. Geoff and Maisie, the Essex therapy dogs, brought plenty of calm cuddles and happy smiles, while Pippin and Millie, the miniature donkeys, trotted in to support wellbeing in the most adorable way possible. It is not every day you get to spend time with such wonderful four-legged friends!

We also enjoyed celebrating Earth Day and Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday with a range of exciting activities covering all areas of learning. From talking about how to care for our world to exploring nature through play, the children showed wonderful curiosity and thoughtful ideas about the world around them.

Our learning about metamorphosis has continued to fascinate us all. We watched our caterpillars patiently spin themselves into cocoons and, as if by magic, emerge as beautiful butterflies ready to flutter off on new adventures. We are still eagerly waiting for the tadpoles to complete their own amazing transformation into frogs, and our Little Owls are keeping a very close eye on every tiny change so that nothing is missed.

Our role-play area has been full of imagination too, transforming first into a busy veterinary surgery and then into a hospital as we explored the topic of people who help us. The children have loved taking on different roles, caring for animals and patients, and using their imaginations to bring the space to life. We cannot wait to see what it turns into next!

Our final half term is already looking wonderfully busy. We will be starting with our annual Fun Run with The Boxted Runners, which is always such a fantastic event. For some of our Little Owls, this term will also bring exciting school transition opportunities, with visits from new teachers and trips to their new schools. There is lots to look forward to, and we know it will be a term filled with confidence, adventure and special memories.