AN alternative provision school which is using the power of nature to boost learning is about to embark on its next project, to enrich biodiversity on its campus.
River Tyne Academy Gateshead has secured funding from the Royal Horticultural Society to create two ponds in the school field at their Birtley site, to reduce the impact of concrete and attract wildlife to benefit the environment and students.
Frogs, newts and an array of birdlife is expected to make the ponds their home on land next to the academy’s forest school thanks to a £5,000 windfall from RHS.
Students’ appreciation of nature and the community is also expected to be enhanced by another grant of £4,500 from the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
River Tyne Academy Gateshead specialises in teaching students with social, emotional and mental health issues, who are referred by mainstream schools temporarily or in some cases permanently. It has 130 students on roll, aged 11-16, across two sites, at Birtley and in The Millway Centre, Sheriff Hill.
River Tyne Academy Gateshead’s outdoor teacher Alan Bowery said: “Being outdoors is immensely powerful and we see the benefits when students return to the classroom where they are much calmer. I often witness the students having a moment, just stopping and watching and soaking it all in.
“They become much more relaxed and are able to discuss any issues concerning them. They will actually dig the two ponds themselves, and it will be great for the biodiversity of the area, reducing the impact of concrete and make it much greener.”
Students will also build raised flower beds, create seating areas and plant trees with the Woodland Trust.
The ponds are the latest green initiative by the school, which is part of River Tees Multi-Academy Trust. The children are regular users of its forest school where they learn an appreciation of the outdoors, watch wildlife, including a local flock of parakeets, develop health and safety skills around fire and tools and learn to cook outdoors, as well as build shelters and make crafts.
“What they learn outside links in with the curriculum,” Alan said. “So, if we are working out the size of an area to dig, they have to use what they have learned in maths.
“They also make posters and vlogs on health and safety which helps them become better orators. When they are out in the community they talk to nice members of the public, which broadens their horizons. Some work with the elderly, many of whom feel forgotten, and they enjoy a game of cards and a cup of tea together.”
Students take part in the life-changing Duke of Edinburgh Award programme as well and the recent cash boost will allow them to buy new camping equipment.
As part of the community element of the scheme, students recently took part in a litter pick in the local park, church and shops collecting 20 bags of rubbish.
“They can see the results of their efforts, and you can see them taking pride in their community,” said Alan.