Key benefits of these areas include:
- Biodiversity Boost: Supplying habitats for essential pollinators, among them bees, butterflies, grasshoppers and more.
- Ecosystem Support: A healthy invertebrate population supports larger animals, including local birds and small mammals.
- Perspective Shift: Helping the public move away from the “short-cut grass” aesthetic and towards appreciating the beauty of long, natural grassland. Especially in areas of low footfall and often not used.
Educational Impact and Assessable Outcomes
The sessions reached over 375 children across Years 1 to 6. By using larger-than-life models and even some live insects, our instructors made the science of ecosystems tangible and memorable.
Following the talk, Harris Primary Orpington were inspired to create a nature-friendly verge on school grounds. This project will help reinforce the lessons acquired during the assembly.
Feedback from the Classrooms
Max Ellington, Head teacher at Harris Beckenham Green, said: “I just wanted to say thank you for our assembly this week. The children had a brilliant time and learned a lot! We were delighted to welcome BEECHE into our school today to educate children on the importance of preserving grass areas and protecting wild insects. Eleanor explained how vital each insect is as part of our ecosystem and even treated us to a close-up look at some real ones. What an amazing and memorable experience for everyone – truly a treat.”
Debra, Teacher at Harris Primary Orpington, said: “Our year 4 and 5 pupils loved their special assembly with visitors from BEECHE. They learned the simple steps which can be taken to protect and nurture our local environment and had the chance to meet some Mini beauties.”