So, Tara how long have you been at the Centre? And what does your job involve on a day to day basis?I’ve been field teaching at the centre since it opened in 2008 but started as an education volunteer at Newport Wetlands Visitor Centre in 2007. My current role involves booking and promoting school visits, leading the field teaching team, and ensuring that programmes include hands-on activities that enthuse and connect children with nature.
Do you enjoy it?YES!
What’s the best thing about your job?Engaging children with nature and watching the magical effect this has on them. I love seeing the excitement in their eyes when they catch a fish for the first time, and it makes my day if I receive a picture or a letter about their visit – Fantastic!
How can any teachers reading this, connect more kids with nature in their schools? List the top 5 ways...1. Make a washing-up bowl pond 2. Build a log pile habitat or a mini-beast hotel3. Go on a scavenger hunt4. If you don’t have a natural space at your school visit a local park, wood or nature reserve5. Take part in the Little Schools’ or Big Schools’ Bird Watch survey (Jan 20 – Feb 14 2014)
Any advice for teachers out there?Allow the children time to discover and explore for themselves, and go outside whatever the weather!