Inspiring Young Minds to Connect with Nature

What is Big Schools Birdwatch?

The Big Schools Birdwatch 2025 is an engaging educational activity organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) as part of their annual Birdwatch initiative. Running throughout January and February, this event invites schools across the UK to help track the state of the country’s bird population by spending an hour observing and recording the wildlife around them. Each year, approximately 60,000 children participate, fostering a love of nature and a deeper understanding of local wildlife.

Why Take Part?

Participating in the Big Schools Birdwatch offers children a hands-on opportunity to learn about the natural world. It enhances their observation skills, teaches the importance of biodiversity, and helps to instil a sense of responsibility for protecting the environment. The data collected contributes to the RSPB’s research, making it a meaningful way for schools to support conservation efforts.

How to Get Involved

  1. Register Your School: Sign up on the RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch website to access resources and guidance.
  2. Plan Your Birdwatch: Choose an hour that works best for your students between January 8 and February 16, 2025.
  3. Prepare Your Students: Use RSPB's free teaching materials, including bird identification guides and fun classroom activities, to get the children excited and ready to participate.
  4. Conduct the Birdwatch: Spend an hour observing your school grounds, nearby parks, or nature reserves, and record the birds and wildlife spotted.
  5. Submit Your Findings: Share your results with the RSPB and contribute to their national data collection.

Educational Resources to Download on the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds website:

  • Bird Identification Guide: A printable chart to help children identify common birds.
  • Lesson Plans: Themed activities that tie into the curriculum.
  • Fun Worksheets: Engage students with puzzles, colouring sheets, and quizzes about birds.

Extend the Learning

  • Organise a bird-feeding station in your school grounds.
  • Create a wildlife-friendly garden with the class.
  • Run a follow-up art project where children draw or paint their favourite bird.

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