Children from Chidham Primary School are having a fantastic time discovering wildlife at the Chichester Harbour Trust’s Dell in Chidham.
Enjoying a new outdoor classroom area created by Countryside Rangers from Chichester Harbour Conservancy, pupils taking part in the Harbour Schools and Forest Schools programmes have the chance to explore the woods, finding materials to make boats to sail in the stream.
Harbour Schools is a new initiative run by Chichester Harbour Conservancy’s Education Centre, which aims to connect local children to their harbour environment.
The Dell is a small woodland at Chidham Lane, owned by Chichester District Council. It is leased to Chichester Harbour Trust, and managed in partnership with Chichester Harbour Conservancy. Nicky Horter, Trust Administrator said, “After talking with the Parish Council and primary school, we realised here was a fantastic chance to create a natural area for school children and local families to enjoy.”
James Atkins, Year 3 teacher and Forest Schools leader at Chidham School, said, “The Dell is a space which we have occasionally used over the last few years, but the potential for us to use this woodland more regularly has been greatly enhanced since the new outdoor classroom has been created.
“We appreciate the time that has been committed to liaise with us as a school, to find out what would make this a more child-friendly area to explore. The children love to extend their learning at The Dell.”
The Dell is open for public enjoyment with an entrance on Hamstead Meadow, Chidham Lane.
