Children in 3rd and 5th class recently took part in the outdoor ethics education initiative - Leave No Trace. Both classes enjoyed two half-day workshops with Education Officer Gavin Beetlestone and completed a project on Local Outdoor Activities, Flora and Fauna, Culture and Heritage, and Conservation.
In 3rd class, we loved all of the outdoor activities in the workshops including creating a huge map of Ireland with a rope and travelling all around it, picking out areas of interest. We also enjoyed our imaginary hike and camping trip. We will all be much more mindful about recycling and waste after learning how long it takes different items, such as plastic bottles and disposable cups, to decompose.
The children worked really hard in groups on their projects and presented them to Gavin on day two of the workshops. 3rd class also performed a rousing rendition of their self-penned song about Ballinderreen. At the end, every child was presented with a certificate to acknowledge that they have become a Leave No Trace Ireland Champion.