The children had a delightful day out at CAFT. They relished seeing the animals, hosting a Christmas party in the woods, sipping hot chocolate, and toasting marshmallows! During lunch, they were treated to a visit from a very special guest who left them some Christmas treats. It was an incredibly enjoyable day, and the children thoroughly loved it!
Rowan Tree Primary School’s Year Four students had an unforgettable experience during their second residential trip of 2023, visiting the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT). Located in the scenic Booth Bank Farm, CAFT is dedicated to providing free programs for children from across the North West.
The children CAFT serves have diverse abilities, from severe disabilities to those who’ve experienced trauma. CAFT creates a safe space where these kids can simply be children again, enjoying laughter, play, and cherished moments.
CAFT’s approach is truly special. They treat each child as an individual, ensuring that disabilities don’t hinder participation. Our students from Rowan Tree Primary School displayed exceptional behavior throughout the trip.
We’ve captured some of our favorite moments in the photos below, showcasing the pure joy and magic of CAFT’s work. It was a trip filled with heartwarming memories. May CAFT continue to be a source of happiness for our remarkable pupils, for years to come.
After a delicious dinner of pizzas Year 4 pupils discovered that their CAFT hosts had left an assortment of industrial torches to take on a walk so that they could say goodnight to all the different animals during their final evening on the farm. Learners loved projecting light across the different areas of the farm and creating their own farm themed shadow puppets with the help of their teachers.
After all this excitement they have now returned to the main farm house to enjoy some milk and cookies before bedtime.
This afternoon our year 4 pupils had great fun accessing the onsite Game Room at the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, a separate building located in the middle of the ten acres of land. Learners enjoyed using all the different turn taking games and accessing the Interactive Table within the adjoining Sensory Room.
Photograph taken shows pupils enjoying a light snack together before moving on to their next activity.
Year 4 learners have ventured down to the woods for an exciting opportunity to roast their own marshmallows. Pupils listened carefully as their helpful CAFT activity leaders took them through the important ways we keep ourselves safe around a campfire before giving them the opportunity to have a go. Afterwards, they enjoyed a campfire sing song with pupils requesting the songs they wished to be performed, we were very proud to hear of how they showed CAFT staff members how to sign along to some of their favourite musical pieces.
We’ve been designing and creating our own mugs with our CAFT Play Worker. Learners have been creating these little tokens for their loved ones at home and as a memento of our time together here on the farm. Pupils have had lots of fun creating their own slimes and playdohs.
The new group of Year 4 residential users have been out to meet the neighbours today, feeding various farm animals and taking part in some animal care.
We look forward to caring for the animals for the duration of our stay.
The first group of Year 4 pupils have departed the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, they’ve had a fantastic week and all really enjoyed themselves… but the adventure doesn’t stop there as the second group arrives! We will continue to be sharing photographs of all the wonderful things they get up to.
Year 4 pupils have had barrels of fun roasting marshmallows around the fire pit. They listened carefully to instructions and were also able to decorate their own hot chocolates with toppings of their choice.
After they had eaten their yummy treats and wiped their hands, learners took part in a campfire singsong – exploring different instruments.
Pupils have been enjoying lots of sensory Messy Play within the onsite Art room, creating their own slimes and playdough! Learners have been helping to create a new WELCOME sign that is going to be displayed at the entrance of CAFT for many years to come – leaving behind something for them to remember us by!