Journeys to Christmas

For F, KS1/2 class, supporting the RE, Geography, Science and Art Curriculum

Following an introductory activity involving sharing ideas about Christmas and smelling Frankincense and Myrrh, the children follow three different trails of coloured stars around the Garden: green, silver and gold.

• On the green trail they see some living Christmas decorations , including holly, ivy, mistletoe, fir and spruce trees.
• On the silver trail they discover the origins of some of the ingredients of Christmas food and have an opportunity to taste them.
• The gold trail is linked to the Christmas story and Christmas gifts, especially gold, frankincense and myrrh.

After the Green trail, the children make a simple decoration with materials from the Garden to take back to school, and as part of the Silver trail they collect labels to stick on a world map to show the origin of Christmas foods.

Designed for F/ Year 1 as part of the gold trail there is also a stable to visit where they can sit on straw bales and tell the Christmas story using knitted figures.

During the plenary session the story of chocolate from grower to customer is acted out and the importance of fairtrade discussed. The programme finishes with the children receiving a piece of chocolate as a surprise.

When you book for Journeys to Christmas you will receive a booklet that provides complete information, including background material.

Availability: November to December only.

Age group: F, KS1 and KS2

Numbers: Up to 70 children (or two classes) per half-day, each class divided into three groups with an accompanying adult.

Duration: 2½ hours per staffed session. If you would like to stay for the whole day to explore the Garden more fully on your own, you may do so at no extra cost. We can provide you with ideas for activities if required.

Cost: £4.50 per pupil with no charge for adults (Note the minimum charge is £108)

Weather: We go outside whatever the weather so appropriate clothing and footwear is recommended. Because of the season however, the outside activities are not very long and, in the event of severe winter conditions, the programme can be adapted.

For more information please contact:

Education Officer, University of Leicester Botanic Garden,
Stoughton Drive South, Oadby, Leics. LE2 2NE
Phone/fax: 0116 271 2933
Email: botanicgarden@le.ac.uk