This year got off to an exciting start as our Y4 boys embarked on their topic, ‘Becoming Bedford. ‘ Over the course of this term, they will delve into Bedford’s historical significance and observe how the town has evolved.
On the first morning of term, the boys headed to Russell Park to explore Bedford’s most well-known landmarks – albeit in miniature! They enjoyed a round of landmark mini golf, where each hole introduced them to a different Bedford landmark.
Thursday was all about map skills as the boys participated in a fun grid reference exercise to find 20 hidden orienteering stamps around the school estate using grid references. The boys’ competitive spirit shone through as they raced around the estate. The most successful teams were those who planned their routes and worked methodically.
The boys will now apply their new knowledge and skills to locate key areas of Bedford’s industry, geography and culture before planning routes to visit as many of these areas as possible during their learning walk next week.
Boys engage with skills-based learning throughout this engaging topic – they choose how to further their knowledge and the areas of interest to research and develop. Skills-based learning such as this is invaluable as it equips the boys with a wealth of skills and experiences that foster independence and confidence, preparing them for real-world challenges and encouraging a lifelong love of learning.
Head of Y4, Mrs Clare, explained, “This pupil-led, real-life-focused unit gives the boys opportunities to learn about their local area and all the exciting history, geography and culture on their doorstep. However, this is just the first step in their topic study. In due course, the knowledge and skills they gather will culminate in a collaborative presentation to Bedford Council on how to persuade people to move to Bedford. Finally, the boys’ presentations will be pitched to a select panel of Dragon’s Den investors!”
