Chester special school calls on local yarn bombers to help with biology lessons

Pupils at Maple Grove School, in Chester, are calling on volunteer knitting enthusiasts to help them unravel the mysteries of human anatomy and biology by knitting sets of organs.

The anatomical knitted resources will be used in biology classes to help pupils learn about the placement and functions of the organs inside their bodies.

Maple Grove, part of Options Autism, and winner of the Chester Standard’s, Specialist Provision of the Year Award 2023, provides specialist education for autistic children and young people aged 5-16, and those with of additional needs.

Headteacher, Ben Reading explained:

‘We’re appealing for avid knitters and knitting circles to create some sets of woollen organs for us. These amazing 3D resources are really engaging for the children and help them explore and understand what goes on inside their bodies. They are very tactile and can be easily manipulated – so for example - when we learn about the digestive system and what happens to the food we eat, the children can hold the stomach in their hands, look at its shape or see how it attaches to the oesophagus and intestines.

‘The models can also be attached to a tabard that the children wear, so they can see the position of the organs. Practical activities like this really help develop their understanding – and there’s lots of opportunity for questions and discussion, along with loads of fun and laughter!’

Commenting on the ingenious designs, Rebecca Lawton, Head of Education at Outcomes First Group, said, ‘We are always looking out for innovative ways to support teaching and learning in our schools. These incredible patterns have been designed by the Consortium of Local Education Authorities for the Provision of Science Equipment (CLEAPSS), who work with schools across the UK to promote quality, effective practical work in science.

‘If you are interested in helping the children by contributing your time and skills, please email me for more information: 

Rebecca.lawton@ofgl.co.uk. 

We are offering a £25 voucher to cover the cost of the wool.

For more information about Maple Grove School, Chester please visit: 

www.maplegroveschool.org