Elmwood staff recently engaged in an action packed training day which developed staff’s ability to support the Out and About curriculum as well as raising the profile of science (whole school priority). Staff experienced cave painting using natural materials as well as coloured chalk to produce some fantastic originals that will be displayed at the front of the school to inspire pupils in the future. Our willow weaving skills were stretched even further this year (led by Helen Sanger from Walsall Countryside Rangers) with staff producing some tension trays – their empathy and guidance will support pupils along their journey in producing one next year. The shooting range was a big success and a highlight for many with Mr Francis being crowned “Hot Shot” after a near perfect score! Finally Emma Cronin of Wild Pickle delivered a fermenting vegetables session resulting in staff experiencing massaging cabbage, salt and spices to perfection. This was a new addition to the curriculum and staff thoroughly enjoyed the process and gained a lot from the knowledge and experience of Emma whose enthusiasm was contagious with staff sampling her home made produce with their German inspired lunch menu (carefully created by Nicole and Simon Hubbard).
Staff are encouraged to contact Emma if they have any problems with their Kraut or want any additional information for the future. I know that we will be pestering her in the future when the pupils get loose on those cabbages!!!!
Anyone interested in finding out more about Wild Pickle can contact Emma via the following:
Facebook link https://www.facebook.com/WildPickle/
Twitter @wild_pickle
Instagram @wildpicklefoods
Website: www.wildpickle.co.uk
The secret venue was a pleasant surprise for staff this year with a well stocked bathroom of goodies to make us feel extra special. The facilities at Blyhmill and Weston Village Hall were exceptional and it enabled us to run all of our workshops with ample break out space on the veranda looking over the Staffordshire/Shropshire countryside. The addition of the community field also added great value for our rifle range.
Further details of this ideal facility are available via the link below which hosts community events and is available for hire. Next year’s training has a hard act to follow having used this perfect venue!
http://www.blymhill-westonvillagehall.co.uk/
