Project dates: 2016-2020
Funder: OPAL
School children in London will be able to get hands-on with nature thanks to a new award set up in memory of OPAL’s deputy director; The Gill Stevens Award.
The award will enable seven school groups each year to visit one of The Royal Parks for a fieldwork session led by an experienced tutor from the FSC. We will use activities linked to OPAL’s national surveys to show schools what can be achieved in the parks near them and encourage them to incorporate more outdoor learning into lessons. Funding will be targeted at schools in London which are among the 20% most deprived in England.
Session synopsis
The Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) network is a UK-wide citizen science initiative that allows you to get hands-on with nature, whatever your age, background or level of ability. We develop activities and resources, including our national surveys, which allow you to get closer to your local environment. We also arrange and take part in nature events and workshops around the country.
Choose from: Bugs Count; Tree Health; Biodiversity Survey; Water Survey; Air Quality Survey; Soil and Earthworm Survey
What
Our half day KS2 (year 4-6) sessions cover plants, animals and habitats as part of the survey content. These sessions are delivered by experienced, DBS checked, first aid trained environmental educators with LOTC quality badges.
Who
OPAL sessions are available for KS2 student groups and are ideally for years 4-6. Please note the funded sessions are only available for specific schools. If you would like to do an OPAL survey, but are not eligable for funding, you can still book, and pay our usual school fee.
Booking
To book an OPAL school session, please email: [email protected] with the following information:
- Subject: OPAL Project
- Your name
- School Name
- School address and postcode
- Your email
- Contact phone number
- Preferred Park: (choose) Bushy Park / Greenwich Park / The Regent’s Park
- Preferred survey
- Preferred date of visit
- Year Group of students
- Number of students
- Number of supporting adults
- Any Medical conditions / SEN we need to be aware of