The big local news this week has been the evacuation of Exmouth Marina following the discovery of an unexploded Second World War bomb by a dredger in the estuary. The safety cordon was widened on Wednesday evening, meaning many residents were asked to leave their homes at very short notice. It has been a shocking and unsettling situation for the community, although Mr Parker reminded us that rumours of unexploded bombs in this area have circulated for many years. We are mindful that a number of families and local businesses have been displaced, and we hope a sense of normality is returning now that the bomb has been disposed of.
Against this backdrop, it feels particularly timely to reflect on the importance of spending time outdoors. This term we are supporting WWF’s Big Winter Wander, a national initiative encouraging everyone to get outside, explore local green spaces and enjoy the benefits of being in nature while supporting wildlife. You can find out more and sign up here: https://register.wwfevents.org.uk/ps/event/TheBigWinterWander2025 (WWF Big Winter Wander)
We are also taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, organised by the RSPB — the UK’s largest garden wildlife survey. It runs from 23rd–25th January 2026, and all you need to do is spend one hour observing and counting the birds you see in your garden, balcony or local park. You can get involved and register here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch (RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch)
Time spent in nature is proven to have a significant positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, and in increasingly busy lives I do sometimes worry that what we now describe as “downtime” has too easily become synonymous with screen time. At school, we place real value on outdoor free play. Children have generous playtimes, and we deliberately avoid overscheduling lunchtime activities so that they have a genuine break in the middle of a long day – time to run, chat, imagine and simply be children.
Wishing you all a very lovely weekend with your families
Charlotte
