Help For Schools Will Get Children Learning Outdoors
1 March 2013
School children learning about 'Monsters of the deep'
Schools and community groups across Derbyshire are being urged to access environmental experts who can help children learn in the great outdoors.
WildScience, which is supported by the University of Derby and delivered by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, Enviro-Learn and University students, is now offering a number of free educational experiences to schools and learning groups in Derby and Derbyshire.
Through the WildScience project, teachers and group leaders can engage their pupils in a variety of free activities including pond dipping, nature's recycling, wild craft, mini-beast hunt or a school BioBlitz.
Beverley Rhodes of WildVolunteering said: "After a successful pilot year last year we wanted to make WildScience available to more children across Derbyshire.
"The activities can be held in a school or groups' own grounds or a local green space or park, and children have a great time exploring mini beasts, finding out about trees, alien invaders and about biodiversity on their doorsteps."
Trained students from the University deliver the wildlife educational activities which are mapped to the National Curriculum through maths and science, and encourage children to understand and enjoy outdoor spaces, wildlife and get involved in biodiversity.
Jason Nichols, Community Relations Assistant at the University of Derby, added: "This year we have over 30 students delivering projects in the community and across our schools. We are also supported by community specialists, so this approach is attracting real interest, and we want many more people to benefit by accessing this programme."
Teachers and group leaders are encouraged to go to the WildScience page on the University's website www.derby.ac.uk/community/projects/wildscience where they can find further information and download the booking form.
Or they can email Jason Nichols in Community Relations at j.nichols@derby.ac.uk or call Beverley Rhodes on 07544 281105.
For more information about this University of Derby Community Relations news story contact Jason Nichols on 01332 591945 or email j.nichols@derby.ac.uk
