Nineteen Reception pupils at St Alban’s Catholic Primary School in Wallasey have been recognised by wildlife charity SongBird Survival for their efforts to help local songbirds survive the winter months. The four- and five-year-olds achieved the Ruby Robin Award after completing a series of conservation-themed activities designed to support garden birds during colder weather.
Hands-On Conservation Activities
As part of the challenge, the children created bird feeders for the school playground and their homes, learned to identify bird species by their songs, and built bird hides to observe wildlife in the school garden. They also took part in a 'worm charming' activity to help ensure birds had access to natural food sources throughout winter.
Reception pupil Sandie said: “I loved listening to the different birds.” Her classmate Amelie added: “I liked putting the seed into the bird feeder and watching them eat it.”
Forest School Sessions
The children take part in weekly forest school sessions, where outdoor learning activities helped them work towards the award through hands-on conservation work. Miss Denise Heaton, higher level teaching assistant and forest school lead at St Alban’s, said: “The children have braved all kinds of winter weather to care for our songbirds - rain, wind and even a bit of snow couldn’t stop them. Since completing this work, they’ve learned to recognise bird calls, created their own bird feeders, and discovered how to look after local wildlife in a really hands-on way. I feel so proud of their energy, kindness, and commitment - they’ve truly made a difference and had fun doing it.”
School and Trust Praise
Headteacher Mr John McDonald added: “We are incredibly proud of our Reception pupils for achieving the Ruby Robin Award. At St Alban’s, our forest school is much more than a way for our early years pupils to develop practical skills; it is an opportunity for them to connect with nature and live out our collective mission of caring for our common home. Well done to all Reception pupils!”
CEO of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust, Mr Andy Moor, said: “This achievement is a wonderful example of how our schools not only enrich our children’s education, but create experiences for them beyond the classroom that inspire a commitment to building a sustainable future. Caring for our environment is a collective responsibility and it is wonderful to see our youngest learners leading the way in conservation, demonstrating a real commitment to supporting their local community.”
