Archive News Item

Pupils at two Radnorshire primary schools are getting closer to nature thanks to a biodiversity grant.

Newbridge Church in Wales Primary School received almost £1,795 and Trefonnen Church in Wales School, Llandrindod Wells almost £3,860, thanks to Powys County Council and the Countryside Council for Wales, to help them raise awareness of the value of biodiversity.

Class one pupils at Newbridge wasted no time in putting the grant funding to good use to learn about birds. Headteacher Mrs Helen Nixon said: "We have been learning all about birds this year and our new bird table and feeders, together with the bird hide, have really helped the children to see lots of different birds at close range.

"The grant has also allowed us to buy a small 'camera trap' and we hope to capture pictures of the birds' behaviour to study in the classroom."

The school has also purchased new information boards, hedgehog and amphibian homes and created a large mini-beast habitat pile with the grant.

Following the official opening of their new school building last year, pupils and teachers at Trefonnen have also been keen to entice wildlife into the brand new grounds.

The new pond has a dipping platform so everyone can study the plants and animals that are already starting to take up residence. A new 'chalet' also means that outdoor learning can continue in the summer even if it rains.

Headteacher Mr David Underhill said: "The funding has meant we have been able to make a good start on developing the school grounds to increase learning opportunities and provide an attractive space for both pupils and wildlife."

Emma Guy, Powys County Council's Biodiversity Officer, said: "I'm very please that the council, with the help of the Countryside Council for Wales, is able to support our schools in developing outdoor learning opportunities and raising awareness of the value of biodiversity."

If your school would be interested in applying for a grant for 2012/12 please contact Emma Guy on 01597 827599 or email biodiversity@powys.gov.uk