This provided the schoolchildren with the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, explore the outdoors and learn outside of the classroom. The pupils enjoyed den building, bow and arrow carving, a healthy snack break with Yeo Valley Organic yogurts and they finished with roasting marshmallows around a log fire.
Vicky Burdett, headteacher at Melbourne Primary School, said: “You can see from the looks on their faces just how much fun they’ve had. The children have been able to play freely in nature and it’s brought out their sense of adventure - they’ve really enjoyed being part of the outdoors.
“It’s so rewarding to be a part of Yeo Explore! and to be able to give our pupils the opportunity to have this experience. It’s something that the children can share together and bond over. We try to encourage outdoor learning wherever we can because we can really see the benefits – the smiles on their faces say it all.”
The Yeo Explore! competition named Barley Close Community Primary School in Bristol and Melbourne Primary School in York as the winners from nearly 200 school entries across the country.
To enter, schools had to explain in 150 words what winning the Yeo Explore! Forest Day experience would mean to them and their students. The two primary schools have also scooped a term’s supply of Yeo Valley Organic Yogurt to enjoy.
Craig Dillon, head of sales for wholesale and foodservice at Yeo Valley, added: “It’s been such a rewarding day seeing the children explore nature and discover all the fun activities that were planned with the Woodland Adventure Company.
“They were able to learn in new ways and try different things, which is what Yeo Explore! is all about – it’s the opportunity to get stuck in and have fun. The campaign was launched to support schools and it’s been so valuable to see it all come together.
“At the heart of Yeo Valley Organic is our commitment to providing good food for everyone. We strive to craft flavourful yogurts that are not only tasty, but also nutritious, which we know children will enjoy.”