If your class can’t come to the Centre, we offer an outreach programme during the winter months for P3-S2 where we bring the Water of Leith to your classroom. Our outdoor learning officer will come to your school to deliver one of the unique Winter Outreach Programmes listed below.
For additional information or to book a programme please call our Outdoor Learning Officer, Ruth Prince, or our administrator on 0131 455 7367 or email [email protected]
What did the environment around your school look like 12,000 years ago? Or 120 years ago? What are some of the animals and plants that grow and live along the waterside? Who were some interesting or famous people who used to live right next door? In this bespoke programme for schools within walking distance of the river, our outdoor learning officer spends the day with your class to help you find out more about your Local Environment. Activities: interactive timeline and guided walk along the river/canal and art workshop/conservation task (for the full-day option).
Choose one from these three topics for a hands-on, interactive, one-hour workshop bringing the plants and animals of the Water of Leith right into your classroom. Activities: PowerPoint presentation, interactive classroom activities and games.
Duration – 1hr
From algae, to mayfly nymph, to trout, to heron: this workshop teaches learners about the many food chains on the river and the ways in which ecological communities are interdependent. Pupils investigate a freshwater sample for invertebrate life. Younger classes take on the role of different plants and animals in ‘The Great Water of Leith Food Chain Game.’ Older classes act as environmental consultants with real-life scenarios of disruptions to the food chain on the river. They discuss the potential impact of both natural and human disruptions and suggest ways in which we as humans can mitigate the impact.
Duration – 1hr
The water cycle is central to life on earth and yet it can be quite challenging for students to understand how it actually affects their lives. In this workshop, we look at the vital role of the Water of Leith in the water cycle and explore key concepts such as run-off and evaporation as they apply on the river. Students explore life under the surface of the water with a freshwater invertebrate sample as well learning about the otters that travel the river from its source in the Pentland Hills to the sea. Younger classes participate in our fun quiz game called ‘From Source to Sea and Back Again.’ Older classes examine potential natural and human disruptions to the water cycle in the form of real-life scenarios.
Duration – One hour
For additional information or to book a programme please call our Outdoor Learning Officer, Ruth Prince or our administrator on 0131 455 7367 or email [email protected].
The Water of Leith Conservation Trust works to conserve and enhance the river, its heritage and wildlife: The Trust promotes education and recreation through the Visitor Centre, and works with volunteers and community groups to deliver around 240 river clean-ups and habitat improvement tasks annually.
