Our Colchester Campus (UK) recently kicked off a brand-new sustainability initiative in line with the Department for Education’s strategy for sustainability and climate change. Throughout this term, we’ll be shining a spotlight on nature with a school-wide focus on biodiversity, bringing learning to life through hands-on, curriculum-linked activities.
From nature walks to school garden projects, recycling initiatives, and hatching ducklings, students will explore the importance of protecting ecosystems, conserving wildlife, and living more sustainably. These projects support key areas of the curriculum particularly biology, ecology, and environmental studies and are designed to enhance pupil awareness of biodiversity and inspire action.
With the support of passionate staff, student leaders, and community experts, the eco-themed term will nurture curiosity, teamwork, and a deeper connection to our natural world. The journey will culminate in a celebratory showcase afternoon in June, featuring student work, eco-projects, and tasty treats.
First up – biodiversity scavenger hunt
To kick off the program, students from years 3 to 8 participated in an engaging biodiversity scavenger hunt. During this activity, they collected various natural items and used them to create jungle-themed pictures, showcasing their creativity and connection with nature.
Following the scavenger hunt, the students conducted quadrat sampling to investigate the distribution of daisies on the field.
The big question they explored was: “Do the daisies on the field increase further from the astro?”
This quadrat sampling was meticulously planned by the year 7 students, demonstrating their initiative and scientific inquiry skills.
Additionally, the students engaged in pooter sampling to collect and study insects, further enhancing their understanding of biodiversity within the school grounds. This activity provided valuable insights into the variety of species present and their ecological significance.
The event fostered cross-curricular links between KS2 and KS4, promoting collaboration and learning across different year groups. It was a wonderful opportunity for primary and secondary students to connect, while developing their scientific skills and appreciating the biodiversity around them.’
Next up: Build-a-Bug Hotel
Adding to the excitement, students recently got creative (and muddy) in a Build-a-Bug Hotel competition!
Science teacher, Miss Shoesmith-Dean, shared:
“We’ve put together a range of activities to help students really connect with the world around them and get stuck into conservation. It’s such a privilege to lead something that sparks a love for biology, ecology, and environmental science, and it’s been amazing to see how excited and involved the children have been.”
Colchester Campus is proud to be pioneering this unique initiative, building not just bug hotels, but a brighter, greener future for all.
Stay tuned as we post other activities our students get up to in their biodiversity studies!