We partnered with Chester Zoo by funding a 3-year educational project that gave local, disadvantaged school pupils opportunities to meaningfully connect with nature.
The UK’s largest zoo worked with local schools and community groups in areas of high deprivation to give disadvantaged pupils better access to, and knowledge about, nature, improving wellbeing, confidence, knowledge and transferable skills.
In 8 primary schools and 2 community groups, including Save The Family, Chester Zoo ran wildlife clubs that 480 people benefitted from. The clubs focussed on connecting children, their carers and families with local nature in a hands-on manner, for example pond dipping. Initially these were led by zoo employees, however teachers were supported to gain the confidence and knowledge to run them, enabling schools to independently deliver future workshops. Feedback from these sessions was incredibly positive with knowledge and wellbeing improving, with one child saying ‘I feel happy’ and the participating adults feeling an improved social connection with their child.
In 4 secondary schools, Chester Zoo ran a 10-week after-school club that encouraged young people to engage with environmental issues relevant to their own lives through interactive, imaginative activities such as stop-motion animation. The clubs taught pupils about their local environment whilst aiming to build their sense of agency and belief that their voice and actions can truly make a difference. In total, 178 pupils benefitted from these clubs, with the young participants gaining confidence in themselves and a greater understanding of their environment. A member of staff at Blacon High School said “Thank you so much for running the after-school club sessions this term, the students (and me!) have all learned so much and are buzzing.”
With this funding, the zoo also created a ‘Bluecoat Bursary’ enabling 67 young people who had taken part in either of the courses to expand on their experiences so far by accessing Chester Zoo’s holiday courses and clubs. All expenses, including transport and lunch, were covered and KidsBank provided any clothes that might be required, making the opportunity to attend fully accessible. These clubs helped the children to build relationships and gain confidence, with one child saying “I have enjoyed every moment. I learnt loads about EEHV, animal logistics and zoo jobs.”
The £60,000 grant we awarded make a real impact in the lives of 658 beneficiaries who were from deprived areas with improved knowledge, wellbeing and self-belief being very strong outcomes. The feedback from pupils, parents and school staff about the educational programme was incredibly positive. We were delighted to be part of this project that had great collaboration between schools and Chester charities who all strive to make a positive difference within our community.
To find out more about how The Chester Bluecoat Charity could support your organisation, call our friendly team on 01244 345 787 or email office@thechesterbluecoatcharity.co.uk
