Deeside pupils lead the way in local wildlife conservation

Pupils at Ysgol Ty Ffynnon in Shotton have been actively working to improve local biodiversity, creating habitats for wildlife and calling on the Welsh Government to do more to protect nature.

Inspired by lessons on the current nature crisis, children in years three and four have taken a hands-on approach to conservation. Wales has lost 97% of its wildflower meadows, and one in six species is at risk of extinction, prompting the pupils to take action.

So far, their efforts have included installing swift boxes and bug hotels within the school grounds and planting wildflowers to support pollinators.

Teachers also arranged for the pupils to plant trees on Rowleys Drive and participate in the Dee Park Project, further enhancing green spaces in the local area.

Raising awareness and calling for action

As part of their research into environmental protection efforts across Wales, the pupils studied the Welsh Government’s Nature Recovery Action Plan and the It’s for Them campaign, which promotes the management of public green spaces for wildlife.

They then wrote to their Member of the Senedd, Carolyn Thomas, to share details of their work and encourage further governmental action.

Archie, a year 4 pupil, wrote: “Thank you for declaring a National Emergency because of the threat to some species who might become extinct. I know we are one of the few countries to do this. Please try hard to discuss this in the Senedd as it is such an important issue for the sake of the future.”

Carolyn Thomas MS, who leads on the It’s for Them campaign, praised the pupils for their commitment. “As a passionate advocate for nature, it is a real joy to see children connecting with and caring for their local environment from such a young age. I was pleased to be able to highlight the work of Ysgol Ty Ffynnon pupils in the Senedd with the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change, Huw Irranca-Davies.”

A growing movement for wildlife conservation

The initiative at Ysgol Ty Ffynnon reflects a growing interest in environmental protection among young people.

Schools across Wales are increasingly incorporating sustainability and conservation projects into their learning, helping children develop an early awareness of ecological issues.

By taking part in hands-on conservation activities and engaging with decision-makers, the pupils of Ysgol Ty Ffynnon are demonstrating how local action can contribute to wider efforts in reversing biodiversity loss.

Their work not only benefits wildlife in Deeside but also sets an example for other communities looking to make a difference.