CREATE, INTERACT & DISCOVER
The Merristems programme uses the Key Stage 1+2 Science National Curriculum to help pupils engage with Nature and to understand and value the incredible natural processes that sustain us.
Weekly workshops delivered at your school by passionate and engaging Studio Cultivate facilitators enable each class to create edible and wildlife friendly garden spaces that become the backdrop for vibrant and productive learning.
The learning opportunities are so hands on. Our children love the workshops and it is so good to have the space used so well at last!
GAIL CARLYLE, Deputy Head; Richard Cobden Primary School, Camden
EDIBLE GARDENS
As part of the Merristems project, pupils will engage in an extensive seed sowing programme to create a garden full of fruit and veg to be harvested throughout the year. Pupils will study the plants that they are sowing and discover and observe their fascinating natural processes, including pollination, seed dispersal and anatomy. Pupils will also study the ways in which many of these plants continue to shape the world we live in today. On harvesting their plants pupils will create delicious, raw food dishes and learn of their important nutritional value.
WILDLIFE IN THE GARDEN
Pupils will discover the importance of animals big and small within the natural world. Pupils will observe the worlds of bees, butterflies and numerous other garden animals; discovering the fascinating ways in which they interact directly with plant life. Pupils will also discover what makes these animals unique and how they can be grouped through exciting classification sessions.
CURRICULAR LINKS
Each Merristem workshop has a clear National Curriculum Science objective, demostrating progression of substantive knowledge and disciplinary skills.
SEASONAL LEARNING
Exciting Merristems workshops take place weekly within a school’s garden, with the green spaces pupils have created, providing a vibrant backdrop for discovery and learning. Each Merristem workshop is strongly based within the current season and is designed to reveal new natural processes to pupils whilst reinforcing the changes to flora and fauna that they will already be observing.
SPRING TERM
SUMMER TERM
AUTUMN AUTUMN
MERRISTEMS AT MY SCHOOL
Merristems Operatives will make weekly visits to a school throughout the academic year, visiting one class per week. The Merristems project features workshops devised specifically for Reception through to Yr.6, so each year group will be able to contribute to the school’s ever changing garden.
Do you want to bring a Merristems project to your school? Find out more about how we deliver the workshops on our FAQ’s section.
FOLLOW ON LEARNING
Each Merristems workshop is accompanied by an illustrated workshop report, clearly outlining the workshop’s learning objectives. This is an opportunity to inspire exciting follow on learning for pupils and staff.