Pupils from Year 1 & 2 recently enjoyed a local walk to Canary Wharf where they had the chance to explore the vibrant surroundings of our city.  

The visit allowed children to see a range of interesting features including the impressive bridge that the DLR travels across, the busy boats moving along the River Thames and the tall buildings that make the area so distinctive.  

As the class made their way through the neighbourhood, the teacher paused at key points to ask the children what each feature was and how it was used. This gentle questioning encouraged them to observe closely and think carefully about their environment. 

The children were also told that they should pay close attention during the walk because their knowledge would be revisited the next day. In class the teacher will present images of the bridge, the DLR, the boats and other landmarks from their journey and will invite the children to explain what each one is and its significance. 

This activity brings learning beyond the classroom and helps to keep the curriculum dynamic and engaging. It shows pupils that learning does not only happen at a desk but can take place in the real world where experiences are meaningful and memorable. 

Throughout the walk the children were ecstatic to be out in the city and were genuinely amazed by the River Thames. Many commented on the movement of the boats and the size of the buildings, while others were fascinated by the trains gliding overhead on the DLR bridge.  

Their enthusiasm showed how powerful real life experiences can be in boosting curiosity and understanding. This activity links closely to one of our values, Curiosity. Trips like these encourage pupils to learn through exploration and to build confidence by engaging with the world around them.