During our Form 1-3 (S1-S3) Activities and Wellbeing Week, F1 enjoyed a glorious day of sunshine at St Andrews Botanic Garden.
Here’s Biology teacher and trip leader Graham Rodger’s account of a day of exploration, discovery, and creativity.
“Armed with identification keys and curiosity, the pupils set out to investigate the rich variety of plant and animal life. They honed their observational skills and embraced the challenge of birdwatching, using the Merlin Bird ID app to tune into the melodic calls of local birdlife.
The hands-on learning continued with pond dipping, where students got a close-up look at aquatic ecosystems and the diverse organisms that inhabit them.
But perhaps the most imaginative challenge of the day was stepping into the role of Paracelsus, the famed Swiss physician. As apprentice herbalists, pupils were tasked with creating plant-based remedies to cure fictional ailments—a creative exercise that tested both their knowledge and problem-solving skills.
When not mixing medicinal potions, the students channelled their artistic talents. Drawing inspiration from the garden’s vibrant biodiversity, each pupil selected a unique plant to capture in a detailed botanical illustration. These artworks will eventually form part of a new identification key, combining scientific precision with artistic flair.
By the end of the day, the Botanic Garden had offered more than just a field trip—it became a living classroom where science and art intertwined. The students returned not only smiling, but enriched by an unforgettable blend of nature, learning, and creativity.”
