CHILDREN from Woodnook Primary have been channelling their inner Bear Grylls with foraging and exploring in Gisburn Forest.

Last week saw Year 4 pupils from the Accrington school learning about the forest environment with the Stephen Park Centre in the heart of the forest.

They foraged for food and took part in arts and crafts activities while learning about what the forest has to offer.

The children were led by resident bushcraft expert Stephen Cook and he was delighted with how much the youngsters gained from the experience.

“We are always amazed by how excited the children get being in the outdoor environment and their faces simply light up when we point out a bird or flower that they recognise in its natural habitat,” he said.

“The children foraged through the forest and turned berries, nuts and other produce in to soup and a fruit crumble.”

Year 4 teacher Jill Walsh went on the trip with the children and said how trips such as these are key to a child’s learning.

She said: “Taking children out of the classroom to experience the world around them is essential.

“It means that they can learn first hand and put the skills they are developing into practice.”

The children also used twigs and leaves from the forest to create art prints as well as picture frames resulting in a fun and educational day.

Ms Walsh said: “Our trip to the Stephen Park Centre was a really, fun education experience and the children had a fantastic time foraging for food and making their own lunch.”

The Stephen Park Centre works closely with local schools to teach children more about the area.

Mr Cook said: “It’s part of the Stephen Park philosophy that we educate children about how the natural environment contributes to our everyday lives and getting back to basics about where our food comes from.”

If you want to find out more information about centre you can visit www.stephenparkcentre.com