Pupils learn about protecting endangered animals

YOUNG conservationists at Frodsham Primary Academy have teamed up with zoo rangers to learn all about the protection of endangered animals.
The children are currently completing a project on endangered animals and the illegal wildlife trade, and had the help of a team of Chester Zoo staff who spent three days in the school working with Year 1 to Year 6 classes.
Then 75 children spent the day at the zoo to see endangered animals up close, with each class then choosing to focus on one animal so that they could develop a detailed understanding of why the species was under threat.
Mia Greenwood, conservation education officer at Chester Zoo, said: “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed working at Frodsham Primary Academy. We were welcomed with warmth and smiles from the first day through to the end of our visit. Both staff and students were bursting with enthusiasm and I can tell that this project will have a huge influence on the entire school community. It has been a privilege to work at such a lovely school – and inspire future conservationists.”
Head of school Gemma Callaghan said: “The work with Chester Zoo has given the children a really deep and fascinating insight into the threats faced by these animals. Although they were upset to discover that some humans threaten the survival of many wild creatures, they now understand that there are many people who are working hard to protect them.
“The children have written balanced arguments, completed statistical research, developed an understanding of food chains and have completed engaging artwork to showcase their learning. Our aim is to give children a voice to make a difference in the future, by understanding how humans can make a difference to the survival of these endangered animals, and the Zoo staff have really helped to bring the subject alive in the most exciting and engaging way.”