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Student bird boxes aid conservationPublished: 3 February 2003  Photos: click each photo for a larger image Students from South Dartmoor Community College have built over 20 bird boxes to protect endangered bird species in South Devon using conservation funding from South West Water. This is the first project of its type to be sponsored by the company. The aim is to boost the school curriculum with a unique and rewarding student project while also supporting and protecting the Devon countryside - one of the region's greatest assets. Over twenty students aged 14 took part in the project to create bird boxes during their Design and Technology class with the help of teacher Matthew White. The boxes are based on designs recommended by the British Trust for Ornithology and made from marine ply to ensure longevity. Boxes will be placed in the college grounds and at South West Water sites in South Devon where wildlife habitats will benefit. They are designed to provide homes for a range of birds including Tits, Robins, Wagtails and Sparrows. Some pupils working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award used this activity to complete the essential service section of their award. For one of the college's Inclusion Groups this was a great opportunity to gain practical skills, organise the construction work as a team and learn about the industrial production process. "The project has been a useful method for pupils to improve a variety of skills while creating original work," said Matthew White, Teacher at South Dartmoor Community College. "We hope the boxes will help to support and regenerate natural bird habitats." "In the future South West Water hope to be able to fund similar projects at other schools across the region based upon this pilot project," said Roger Trengove, South West Water's Environment and Research Manager. "It's a brilliant opportunity to protect the environment while enhancing the school curriculum and giving pupils a real sense of achievement." - ENDS - For further information please contact Dina Chandler, Communications Officer on 01392 443021. DC/268 |
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