Kennet Valley School pupils learn about the River Kennet

Yesterday, June 21, 39 pupils, aged 4 to 8 from Kennet Valley School spent the morning at Stonebridge Nature Reserve learning about the River Kennet. The visit was led by ARK (Action for the River Kennet) and organised by Jacqy McQue, teacher and school science lead.

Jacqy McQue commented, “At Kennet Valley we use the outside area a great deal and so we were delighted to be able to work with Ark and visit the Nature Reserve at Stonebridge. Anna and Zoe, the ARK guides, showed the children pictures of creatures that they might find in the river and then they were off! Squeals and laughter rang out as they entered the river – this was mainly because water rose up and over their little wellies immediately. Undeterred, the children worked in groups using nets to collect the tiny animals living on the riverbed.

These nets were emptied into large trays so the children could then observe the living things more closely using magnifying glasses. The children worked together and managed to identify freshwater shrimp, blue-winged olive and cased caddis. Anna then showed them signs that otters and water voles were living on the river, and the children learnt that this means the River Kennet is in good condition.”

Children in both the classes were quick to comment about their morning at the nature reserve saying, “The water was so cold, I couldn’t believe all the animals that live in It.” and “I loved being in the river – it was so exciting.”

ARK commented, “The pupils have seen and smelled otter spraint, found feeding signs of water vole, used nets, pipettes and magnifiers to take a kick sample and study sensitive indicator invertebrates. This links back to our workshop with the children last week, to help them understand we all need to be Water Smart and Sewer Savvy. The less water we all use, the more is left to keep our rivers flowing and sustain all the amazing wildlife the children say today. By not putting wet wipes down the loo, we can prevent sewer lids from ‘popping’ and sewage polluting the river. This Water Matters project is in partnership with Thames Water.”

Lisa Morgan, a Kennet Valley teacher who accompanied the trip, said, “ARK are a fantastic organisation who we love working with. They really engage the children in finding out about the environment that surrounds them. It is outdoor learning at its best!”

Emma Russell, Headteacher, said, “I was very jealous not to be able to join this session at Stonebridge Nature Reserve, especially after hearing about all the wonderful creatures that our children found. Thank you so much to Anna and Zoe, and all of ARK, for continuing to work with the school.”