Ryders Hayes School: Nurturing the Environment and Wellbeing Through Biodiversity and Collaboration

At Ryders Hayes, we believe in more than just academic excellence. We have a strong ethos for the environment and wildlife, and our commitment to sustainability and biodiversity is deeply embedded in everything we do. Our goal is to create an environment where childrens not only thrive academically but also grow emotionally, physically, and socially. By focusing on the natural world, we help our children connect with nature, fostering a sense of belonging, well-being, and flourishing.

The Allotment: Where Growth and Learning Go Hand in Hand

At Ryders Hayes, we are proud of our well-established allotment area. It’s more than just a space for planting—it’s an interactive learning environment where all children have access to learn how to grow food, from seed to harvest. This hands-on experience is vital for our childrens, teaching them not only about the environment but also responsibility, patience, and the joy of nurturing something from the ground up.

Smaller intervention lessons are regularly held in the allotment, focusing on the journey of a plant’s life cycle. Children learn how to plant seeds, care for them, and eventually enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting fresh vegetables. These practical lessons provide real-world learning experiences and support our aim to help children develop skills that will serve them for life.

Community Collaboration: Partnering with Local Volunteers

Collaboration extends beyond the school gates. We work closely with the local community to enrich our environmental initiatives. We are fortunate to have the support of a dedicated volunteer from the Rotary Club, who works alongside our enthusiastic staff members—Mr. Rylance and Miss Thorp. Together, they inspire our children to get involved, fostering a strong sense of community and teamwork. The support from local volunteers not only enhances the children’s learning experience but also builds meaningful connections between the school and the community.

Eco Committee: Inspiring Positive Change

Within the school, we also have a dynamic Eco Committee, consisting of children from Year 3 to Year 6. This passionate group meets regularly to focus on a range of important environmental issues, including litter, waste management, and biodiversity. Under the leadership of our dedicated Mrs. Smith, the Eco Committee works tirelessly to make a positive impact on the school and the wider community. From reducing waste to promoting recycling initiatives, these young eco-leaders are determined to make a difference and inspire others to do the same.