Water Matters

Water Matters 2021-22

Bringing the river to the classroom. Running in adaptable ways during COVID times.

*During the pandemic we are delivering this project in range of formats suitable and adaptable for each school.  Do get in touch if you are a teacher and would like to know more.*

Students will learn about their local river, its wildlife and the value of clean water. We will cover habitats, food chains, identification of freshwater invertebrates and much more.
 
‘Water Matters’ provides multiple opportunities to teach ‘Living things and their habitats’ with scope to develop science, maths, art, critical thinking and creative writing skills. It also provides a valuable contribution to any Rivers topic. It’s fun and it’s free.
 
The programme is based on two structured lessons, the first presented live in the school playground or virtually by ARK experts. In an ideal world the second workshop will be a visit to a river or a What lives in my river? outdoor workshop within the school grounds.
If these two options are not possible, an alternative live hands on or remote virtual lessons is available.

Water Matters is available to schools within the Kennet catchment. The project is ideally suited to years 4, 5 and 6. The project is free, but places are limited. For all Water Matters enquiries email anna@riverkennet.org 

  

 

Quotes from teachers:

‘Thank you so much for today, the children loved it! They are so excited to start planning for their persuasive writing tomorrow, you have really inspired them.’
Ramsbury Primary

‘Thank you so much for the sessions. I am always in awe of your knowledge, commitment and passion in protecting our local rivers.’
Welford & Wickham Primary

‘We are so lucky to have been able to continue to take part in the Water Matters sessions this term. Luckily ARK found a way to make our sessions work despite the COVID-19 restrictions in place in school. The children thoroughly enjoyed their Zoom sessions and are really looking forward to their final session.’
Marlborough St Mary’s

‘A fantastic way to engage the children with their local river environment and explore ways to preserve water use. The children loved identifying the different creatures and learning about their life cycles.'
Kintbury St Mary's

By the end of this new and innovative project students will:
  • have a good in depth understanding of chalk streams and their wildlife
  • know how and why to reduce water consumption at home and at school
  • understand where drinking water comes from and where wastewater goes
  • understand pollution is bad for the river, and how to keep rivers clean.