Year 2 had a fantastic morning out at The Orangery Restaurant, where we were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of their impressive vertical hydroponic farm walls. Beneath the restaurant, the children explored the farm area, including the nursery, and discovered how plants can thrive even in a central London basement.
Lorenzo talked us through the process and explained that, despite the unusual setting, plants grow successfully thanks to special grow lights, nutrient-rich water (meaning no soil is needed), and carefully controlled temperatures. The children were fascinated to learn how technology supports plant growth in such an innovative way.
During the visit, the children tasted rosemary-, thyme- and mint-infused water and had the opportunity to handle some of the older plants. They made excellent links to our current science unit, confidently discussing what they could see and articulating the life cycle of a plant based on their own observations and enquiries.
Upstairs, the children completed a word search printed on recycled, compostable paper containing seeds—please plant this at home! Your children will be able to tell you all about the perfect conditions needed for germination and growth. They also received some very cool pencils with seeds at the end, so don’t worry if your child tries to plant a pencil—it really does have seeds inside!
A huge thank you to The Orangery Restaurant, and especially to Idris and Lorenzo, who were absolutely brilliant with our children. 🌱 And a big Thank you to Mr Dunning for recommending such a wonderful trip.
