Schools set for penguin invasion

Parade: Mini statues painted by pupils will stand alongside giant versions during summer display

Every school in Dundee is to receive a “baby” penguin sculpture and an accompanying education pack as part of the Maggie’s Penguin Parade project.

One hundred statues, standing 4ft tall, will waddle their ways into the classrooms of nursery, primary and secondary schools, plus a number of community groups, next month.

The man behind the initiative is Maggie’s Penguin Parade’s education co-ordinator, Neil Cooney.

“When I became involved with Maggie’s, I wanted to ensure all schools and children were able to take part – nurseries, primaries and secondaries, as well as young people’s residential units and those with additional support needs,” said Neil.

“I wanted the education element of the Penguin Parade to be as inclusive as possible. What better time to do this, in 2018, the official Year of Young People?”

Each penguin cost £400 but thanks to funding from Northwood Trust and the Community Regeneration Fund, Maggie’s can ensure 100 of the penguins

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for schools to engage pupils, teachers, carers and parents in the difficult topic of cancer in the family. EDUCATION CO-ORDINATOR NEIL COONEY

– which are half the size of the towering 8ft versions in the summer Penguin Parade Trail – go into schools and community groups in Dundee free of charge. A handful of Angus schools are also set to benefit.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for schools to engage pupils, teachers, carers and parents in whole-school, whole-community conversations around a series of topics, including the difficult topic of cancer in the family,” said Neil.

“The Oor Wullie Trail generated incredible community spirit across the city, so hopefully the Penguin Parade will do the same.”

Each mini penguin will come with instructions on how to paint it – a task that will be completed by pupils and teachers. Schools will also be given packs full of facts about penguins, Antarctica, exploration and Dundee explorers.

Primary schools in Dundee will also be treated to free class trips to the St Andrews Aquarium.

“This is great news for outdoor learning,” said Neil. “Pupils will have a fun day out and be able to meet and learn more about real penguins.”

From July to September, during the Penguin Parade Trail, the baby penguins will be publicly exhibited in local clusters.

“They will complement and add real value to the main trail, by showcasing the creativity of Dundee’s youngest citizens,” said Neil.

After the event, the dinky penguins will return to the schools to be kept as mementos.

Picture: Kim Cessford. Pupils at Our Lady’s RC Primary got a chance to meet their penguins yesterday when they waddled into their school.