Getting close to nature at Hampstead Gate Day Nursery

Pre-schoolers from Hampstead Gate Day Nursery in Milton Keynes were delighted to witness the life cycle of a butterfly first hand, thanks to a special live growing and observation kit at the setting, before gathering in the garden to set them free.

At the award-winning setting on Eelbrook Avenue, children were captivated as they watched the caterpillars transform into a chrysalis over the weeks, before emerging as butterflies in their final stages. The group then took to the garden outside, where they released the creatures and even dressed up as them in inspired outfits to mark the occasion.  

Following on from this, children were keen to co-research the different types of butterflies that are native to the UK using books and the smart board, as well as investigating the steps they could take to attract more of them to the garden in the warmer months. 

It is for such activities that Hampstead Gate have been awarded a prestigious Green Flag as part of the international Eco-Schools scheme, the highest accolade is the programme, which is given for exceptional environmental conservation and awareness practices.

Hampstead Gate Day Nursery Team Leader, Ashleigh Smith explained;

“We had a brilliant few weeks watching the caterpillars transform into butterflies and everyone was fascinated to watch this process in person. This was such a rich learning experience for the children, which has also provided them with a deeper understanding of both metamorphosis and the natural world around them.”