RSPB reserve judged to be one of England’s best for outside learningPupils visiting Rainham Marshes to learn about the environment are receiving an outstanding education, according to a Government-sponsored scheme.
The programme, known as the Quality Badge, is the first to provide a national benchmark of teaching standards for out of classroom learning. It ranked the Purfleet reserve’s teaching-scheme as ‘Outstanding’ – the highest grade available.
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.
The report described Rainham Marshes as “a true oasis and unique wild space”, which has become “a leading centre for environmental education in London”.
It praised the passion and enthusiasm of the reserve’s education team, which visiting teachers said led to better coursework and improved motivation in some pupils.
Rainham Marshes’ innovative Environment and Education Centre was also described as a unique tool in illustrating ways to minimise our impact on the environment. The award-winning centre runs on solar and wind power, and is fitted with other energy saving devices such as self-regulating temperature controls and wool insulation.
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.”
Every year nationwide, the RSPB introduces 60,000 school children to nature through its Living Classrooms field-teaching scheme. This is an exciting programme of school visits, designed to bring learning to life through curriculum-linked, hands-on activities.
Much of it is financed by donations from funding schemes, with the programme at Rainham Marshes generously supported by the City of London’s City Bridge Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund
For primary schools, activities include re-enacting climate change, pond exploration, building the River Thames, growing like a plant and becoming meteorologists.
For secondary schools, subjects range from water quality studies and land-use mapping, to team skills and confidence building.
Stewart Goshawk, of the City Bridge Trust, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the education programme at Rainham Marshes and congratulate the RSPB on achieving this level of recognition. We are keen to ensure that quality opportunities exist for young Londoners to experience and understand our wildlife heritage and its biodiversity. Rainham is a key part of helping us achieve this aim.”
Robyn Llewellyn, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund East of England, said: “Rainham Marshes offers visitors a wonderful opportunity to learn about and enjoy their natural heritage. With our support, the RSPB created an education programme that really captures the imagination of young people, ensuring that this landscape will be treasured for generations to come. This recognition is well deserved.”
For more information on RSPB Rainham Marshes call 01708 899840 or visit rspb.org.uk/reserves
Image - Andy Hay rspb-images.com
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