Year 5 pupils from St Laurence-in-Thanet CE Junior Academy enjoyed a hands-on day of outdoor learning at Ramsgate Main Sands as part of a Coastal Carousel Beach Based Learning Day.
The pupils took part in a series of exciting workshops designed to help them learn more about the local coastline, wildlife and the importance of protecting the environment. During the day, the children visited different learning stations where they explored shore and marine life, local habitats, migratory birds and the impact humans can have on the coast.
One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to investigate the fascinating creatures that live along the shore and chalk reef. Pupils carried out a scavenger hunt, searched for natural objects on the beach and learned more about the animals and plants that rely on this special coastal environment.
The children also learned about the challenges facing our coastline, including litter, pollution and climate change. They discussed how everyday choices can make a difference and considered what people can do to help keep beaches and oceans clean and healthy.
As part of the visit, pupils were given a Coastal Carousel Passport, which they used to collect stamps at each station and complete a quiz to test their new knowledge. There was also time for reflection and feedback at the end of the day.
Some pupils also took part in a beach clean, putting their learning into action by collecting litter and helping to care for the local environment.
Year 5 pupil Lilly said: “Later, we picked up some litter and threw it away and then had lunch. It was great even though it was raining! After lunch we voted on how long it takes different items of rubbish to degrade. Some took over 100 years.”
The day was delivered by Thanet District Council’s Coastal Education Officer, Biodiversity Officer and Climate Change Project Coordinator, alongside Thanet Coast Project and East Kent Bird Wise.
