Aldborough Primary School turns parents and children into scientists and raises cash for charity
A North Norfolk primary school put on a family learning afternoon with a difference, and raised money for charity at the same time.
On Tuesday March 19 Aldborough Primary School, near Aylsham, welcomed over 70 parents, carers, grandparents and younger siblings, who enjoyed deep diving into a sea of marine conservation inspired activities, combined with a ‘wear blue’ fundraising event supporting the Norfolk Big C charity.
Aldborough recently became the first Norfolk school to gain Ocean Friendly status from the Marine Conservation Society – and only the eighth school in the UK. As well as covering marine topics in its curriculum, the school uses its status to run a variety of activities – hence the family learning day.
As part of the award, the school appointed Ocean Friendly Ambassadors and, with their enthusiastic help, everyone at the learning day became scientists. Rebecca Gale, the school’s science coordinator and SENCO (special educational needs coordinator), said, “Families examined shells under microscopes, tested the pH levels of various liquids and sparked up light circuits whilst learning about turtle nesting, and the impact of human activity on habitats and marine ecosystems.”
Continuing the water theme, everybody had the opportunity to make a Greek water clock and decorate it with an ocean theme. Plus, with paper, chalks, and tissue, families created beautiful seascapes and colourful underwater scenes for display in the classrooms.
One parent commented, “We had a lovely afternoon and really enjoyed the variety of fun and interesting activities.”
Ocean Ambassador Lottie, who is in Year 6, said, “‘We learnt about climate change and the effect that it has on the sea. The families got very absorbed looking through microscopes to see the effect that ocean acidification has on shells.’
Meanwhile Tilly, who is in Year 5 and is a Science Ambassador for the school, said, “It was interesting to make the water clocks…. we learnt about carrying out experiments and how we needed to learn from our mistakes and try again!”
Ms Gale added, “It was a fantastic afternoon, full of strong learning and lots of fun. It’s so positive to see families working and learning together, it gives the children a real buzz.”
The event raised £126.92 for the Big C.
For more information about the Marine Conservation Society and the Ocean Friendly Schools award scheme, visit www.mcsuk.org
Aldborough Primary School is in North Norfolk, between Aylsham and Cromer. Visit www.aldborough.norfolk.sch.uk for more information.