Nature reserve in Purfleet graded outstanding (From Thurrock Gazette)

Nature reserve in Purfleet graded outstanding

11:45am Thursday 11th June 2009 in News

RAINHAM Marshes reserve in Purfleet has been graded as “outstanding”for out of classroom learning by a Government sponsored scheme.

The Quality Badge programme gave the reserve, which is managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the highest grade available for its teaching standards.

More than 4000 school children of all ages visit Rainham Marshes each year from across Essex and London, including Thurrock, Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Newham.

Brona Doyle, RSPB Rainham Marshes education officer, said: “Getting top marks in this national scheme shows just how passionately we believe in giving young people an experience with nature they won’t forget.

“Out of classroom learning is one of the most effective forms of education. It broadens children’s outlook, keeps them fit and healthy, and gives them a sense of awe for the world around them.

“I hope our ranking as one of the country’s leading environmental education centres will encourage more schools and families to pay a visit to Rainham Marshes, and discover for themselves what wild wonders live on their doorstep.”

The report praised the passion and enthusiasm of the reserve’s education team, which visiting teachers have said led to better coursework and improved motivation in some pupils.

Primary school pupils visiting the reserve enjoy activities such as re-enacting climate change, pond exploration, building the River Thames, growing like a plant and becoming meteorologists.

For secondary schools, the subjects range from water quality studies and land-use mapping, to team skills and confidence building.

The reserve’s award winning Environment and Education Centre, which runs on solar and wind power, was also described in the report as a unique tool in illustrating ways to minimise man’s impact on the environment.

For more information on RSPB Rainham Marshes call 01708 899840 or visit rspb.org.uk/reserves.