‘Fun, free and flexible’
Close to a million school children have taken part in the Big Schools’ Birdwatch, the world’s biggest survey of wild birds, since its launch 17 years ago. According to the RSPB, these numbers show just how important it is for children to get outside to learn and make their first discoveries in nature. An RSPB spokesperson said a 2017 survey of teachers and school children showed an overwhelming majority want to encounter nature in the classroom.
Involving 200 teachers and 1,200 school children from around the UK, the survey revealed 96 per cent of teachers believe it is important for children to experience nature at school - with the agreement of 77 per cent of pupils.
Last year, 60,000 children and teachers took part in counting more than 100,000 birds, ranging from black-headed bulls to wrens, song thrushes and collared doves.
For the 10th successive year, the blackbird was the most common playground visitor, with 88 per cent of schools spotting one during their watch.
Robins, house sparrows and woodpigeons all featured prominently in the results although, with more than 70 different species recorded, an RSPB spokesperson said she was sure there would a few surprises in schools around the country.
Only a few days into this year’s Birdwatch, birds spotted so far in our schools include bullfinches,piedwagtailsand rooks, among others.
RSPB education manager SuzanneWelchsaidtheproject has a number of benefits. Suzanne said: “Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a fun educational activity and is free to every school in the UK.
“It’s flexible enough to fit into a lesson or during lunchtime and links well to the curriculum or project work and works for all ages and abilities. It also gives children an opportunity to get outside, experience and learn about wildlife local to them. “Sadly, children are spending less time outside in nature, meaning they are missing out on the positive impact nature has on their education, physical health and emotional wellbeing.
“The Birdwatch is the perfect chance to experience nature first hand, make exciting discoveries and provide valuable information on how our school birds are faring.”