Winter 2012: Once again the nature garden on the site of the old Tidemill primary school is full of the sounds of children playing, excitedly rediscovering secret paths and hidden dens. In partnership with local community group Assembly SE8 the latest Mud Pies etc. initiative in Lewisham has really gained momentum, becoming an inspirational environment where children look forward to spending their Sunday afternoons.

London Play has been promoting natural play opportunities for local families as part of the Mud Pies etc initiative funded through its Taking Nature to the Streets project.

A treehouse, designed and built by children, with materials donated by a local recycling company and the support of parents and volunteers is now complete and has become the centrepiece of the project.

Throughout the last month there has been a whole host of activities taking place within the garden from wooden whistle and lantern making to drama workshops and charcoal making.

“This has become such a talking point for my children who really enjoy the opportunity to come here,” said one parent. “But something that I didn’t expect was how much I would learn and experience from being here.”

The sessions run on Saturday afternoons from noon to 4pm at the Old Tidemill Primary School (nature garden), Frankham Street, London SE8 4RN