Exploring Carrington Moss

Posted at 11:11 am on 20th July, 2021

Year 7 Inspired by Local Nature Reserve

Year 7 students visited Carrington Moss, as part of Wellacre’s Curriculum Enrichment Day.  

Students made their way from school to the Carrington Riding Centre where they met photographer Jonathan, Anna from Friends of Carrington Moss and Laura from the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). 

     

Students enjoyed a series of activities with Jonathan, as they learnt some basic photography skills, mixing in rural and urban landscapes.  They worked hard on their photography, and took many photos, finding that perfect angle or trying to work beyond the basic rules of photography. 

Year 7 student Jacob was crowned the winner of the Carrington Moss Photo Competition with one his five submissions.  The organisers were really impressed with all the pictures Jacob submitted but they really liked the framing and composition of the winning photo:

Following on from photography, students spent time with RSPB expert, Laura, who introduced the boys to binoculars and how best to spot birds. They saw sparrows, white throated warblers and a buzzard even made a show. 

    

Some boys also had a taste of tracking, discovering a fox print amongst all the dog prints.  The students listened to the sounds made underground and the inside of trees with a stethoscope; they were particularly amazed to hear the sap running up the tree reinforcing it was actually a living thing!

Mrs Doolan, Teacher of Geography, said:

“Students really loved the day out.  They learnt so much about nature, and how urban and rural mix. The professionals were really inspiring and they really helped the students get in touch more with what is on their door steps. They found a natural photographer in Jacob, who carried on taking photos after the session had finished! I am sure they will use Carrington Moss more in the future.”

      

Carrington Moss is a local site of biological importance.  Apart from being a rare peatland moss which absorbs tonnes of carbon each year, it is home to many important animal and plant species, some of which are endangered.

Year 7 student, Jacob, said:

“I love photography and Jonathan really helped me understand how to take pictures, I will keep using these to help me learn more about my camera.”

Fellow Year 7, Hamza, said:

“My favourite part of the trip was looking at the birds through the binoculars, you could see the amazing colours.” 

Mrs Sharrock, Principal, said: 

“This was a fantastic opportunity for our boys and I am thrilled that they gained so much from the experience. Thank you to Jonathan, Anna and Laura who shared their knowledge and expertise so freely. We are looking forward to strengthening our partnerships in the future.”