River Schools

In this workshop we will look at a range of ways to enabling children to engage with their local rivers, streams and ponds. We will provide participants with examples of different freshwater-based activities in which children enjoy partaking, including: pond-dipping; river surveying; mindfulness practices; activism and citizen science; and arts and crafts, such as weaving with freshly cut river-side willow. We will also discuss many aspects of best practice, giving particular consideration to: health and safety / risk assessments; biosecurity; engaging schools and teachers; and funding opportunities.

Freshwater is a finite and precious resource, but it is increasingly coming under threat from a range of issues, including pollution and wastage. As pressure upon our rivers grows, the need for people to take stewardship over them increases; however, as only 2% of rivers are publicly accessible in England and Wales, a disconnect ensues. We aim to remedy this by helping create connections between people and their freshwater habitats via education, recreation and activism.