CHILDREN at three primary schools are getting the ‘wildlife bug’ and enjoying learning about nature thanks to a scheme run by Wildlife Friendly Otley.

As part of its plan to work with local schools on wildlife and nature schemes, the community group donated a wildlife kit including a bird table and feeder, nest boxes and a bee house. The items were all made possible by the grant obtained by Wildlife Friendly Otley from cosmetics retailer Lush and they were handcrafted by Otley-based Wharfedale Men’s Shed.

Children in Year 5 at the Wharton’s’ Primary School were excited to receive their new wildlife kit.

The school’s active outdoor learning lead teacher Dominic Fisk said: “We are so thrilled with the fantastic resources so kindly provided by Wildlife Friendly Otley and Otley Outdoors. Outdoor learning is a main driver in our school curriculum. These resources will enhance the wildlife habitats the children have created around the school, supporting a range of animals, insects and birds and provide opportunities for children to learn about conservation first-hand.”

Wildlife Friendly Otley also enabled children in year 5 at St Joseph's primary school to plant about 300 trees in their school grounds. The trees were sourced through The Conservation Volunteers "I Dig Trees" scheme.

PTA member Kate Egan said "St Joseph's are lucky to have such spacious grounds, both as a lovely place to be and a place to learn. The trees and the wildlife equipment help both the wildlife and the school community."

Wildlife Friendly Otley's education officer Neil Griffin said: "We hope that these things help children in their studies and also get the ‘wildlife bug’ to help them feel a connection with the natural world around them. It's a great age to experience the awe and wonder that wildlife inspires, and here in Otley we're so lucky in that regard with plenty of wildlife around if you know where and what to look for.”

Ashfield Primary School on Weston Lane, where Wildlife Friendly Otley carried out a wildlife makeover day in 2019, is hoping to extend its wildlife activity by planting its verge with wildflowers this year. For more information about wildlife projects for Otley schools go to wildlifefriendlyotley.org.uk or email wildlifefriendlyotley@gmail.com.