University students go pond dipping with local pupils
8 June 2012
Pond dipping at Alvaston Park
Two days of fun and outdoor science for school pupils took place recently at four city parks with the support of University of Derby students. Each pupil had a great wildlife experience, searching for creatures, discovering habitats and learning about biodiversity. Activities included pond dipping; butterfly and wildflower surveys and a bug and mini-monster hunt. The pupils used their skills to record findings through photographs, drawings, words and leaves.
All the pupils were encouraged to understand and enjoy the parks and wildlife and enter a wall art competition using their findings, awards will be given at a formal presentation at the University in July. 836 children, along with staff and parents from 15 local primary schools, many from inner city areas took part at Sinfin; Chaddesden, Arboretum and Alvaston Parks.
University students received training from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and WildDerby as part of their WildScience work experience project. Students with an interest in education and wildlife using science and play are working on the project to assist schools deliver wildlife education and get pupils involved in biodiversity.
Beverley Rhodes of WildDerby said: "This has been possible because students individually helped to create this event. Next year the Schools BioBlitz will become part of WildScience and schools are encouraged to book from January 2013. Each school will be able to choose a park and date and students from the University will help to deliver the programme".
For more information about this Community News story, contact Jason Nichols on 01332 591945 or email j.nichols@derby.ac.uk
