We have finally managed to secure funding to reinstall the pond at Ysgol licswm.
Week commencing 12th January the work has started. There are lots of benefits that this can bring to our pupils:
🌱 Educational Benefits
- Hands-on learning: Children can study plants, insects, amphibians, birds, and water life in a real-world setting.
- Supports curriculum subjects: Great for science (life cycles, ecosystems), geography, math (measuring depth/area), and art or writing.
- Environmental awareness: Helps children understand ecosystems, conservation, and the importance of protecting nature.
- Inquiry and critical thinking: Encourages observation, questioning, and problem-solving.
🧠 Emotional & Mental Health Benefits
- Calming effect: Water and nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and improve focus.
- Improves well-being: Spending time outdoors is linked to better mood and emotional regulation.
- Sense of wonder: Seeing wildlife up close sparks curiosity and excitement about learning.
🏃 Physical Benefits
- Encourages outdoor activity: Walking, exploring, and supervised pond studies promote movement.
- Develops motor skills: Activities like pond dipping (with supervision) improve coordination.
🤝 Social & Personal Development
- Teamwork: Group activities encourage cooperation and communication.
- Responsibility: Caring for the pond teaches stewardship and respect for living things.
- Inclusivity: Nature-based learning benefits children of different learning styles and abilities.
🌍 Community & School Benefits
- Outdoor classroom: Provides a unique learning space without needing to leave school grounds.
- Stronger school identity: A pond can become a valued feature that students feel proud of.
- Community engagement: Can involve parents and local environmental groups.
Excavation of the site began on Wednesday 14th January 2026. Whilst digging up all the overgrown weeds, Bodfari environmental found som old pieces of ceramics and a piece of clay pipe.
The site was initially dug back out and had all the weeds removed. In order that we can preserve the pond for a long time it was filled witha few layers of sand inbetween the pond lining. We are looking forward to seeing how the work progresses……..