Hartington C of E Primary School students to set up bird boxes as part of Peak District Award scheme
Hartington Primary School receives their Peak District Award
Students at Hartington C of E Primary School are set to distribute their own bird nesting boxes to observe wildlife in the village, as part of a year-long project with the Peak District National Park Ranger Service.
Pupils are visiting Hartington Hall Youth Hostel on Friday 20th March taking the bird boxes they have made at school, which will be put up around the village to monitor bird species and activity, as well as given out to local residents.
The project is the second part of student’s studies towards the Peak District Award, which aims to encourage people to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the features of the Peak District National Park that make it a special and valued place.
In December 2014, pupils picked up certificates and ribbons for their work exploring the eco-system and history of Beresford Dale.
Speaking at the special presentation event, Learning and Discovery Team Leader at the Peak District National Park Authority, Sarah Wilks said: “The children spent 20 hours working on the Award; some of that time was spent with our Rangers where they visited Beresford Dale to have the hands-on experience and get a sense of what it’s really like. It’s all about connecting them with the special place, finding out all about it and taking responsibility for it too.”
The third part of countryside research will take place during the summer term, when pupils will spend time investigating science and habitats, comparing Africa and Antarctica with Hartington.
This project ties in with activities youngsters have been enjoying with Bemma Akyeampon, of African Ark in Nottingham, including African storytelling, dance, drama, art and music making.
Head Teacher, Tracy Blackwell said: “This project is giving youngsters in-depth knowledge of a whole range of important issues including local countryside management, wildlife species and the future.
“With many of our students coming from the immediate local area and from farming families, they care about their environment; they want to learn all about it and how they can help make it sustainable for the future; the Peak District Award project is helping them to understand this.
“Looking into African cultures and Antarctic habitats allows pupils to investigate and experience the diversity of our planet and imagine life in a completely different environment to Hartington.”
