The West of England Falconry, based in Newton St Loe, Bath, has launched a new series of Children’s Holiday wildlife workshops for ages 6 to 11.
Focusing on learning about what it means to be a conservationist through practical, engaging fun, the workshops also include the opportunity to be up close and personal with some of the centre’s resident birds through flying and handling sessions.
“Engaging with wildlife outdoors is such a memorable and enriching experience for any child, and we are striving to give these experiences to children through our workshops, whilst encouraging a compassion for animals and a sense of teamwork,” said Centre Manager Naomi Johns.
“By giving young people an opportunity to get stuck in with the real activities that real conservationists use in the field, is not just unique but also massively exciting – from handling birds of prey to dissecting owl pellets, looking at nesting boxes or building wildlife habitats.
“Ffion the Tawny Owl has definitely been a firm favourite for many of the children, who both enjoy flying her and comment on how chatty she can be with her ‘twit-twoo’ noise which many recognise hearing at home. Or holding ‘Indali’ the Lugger Falcon whilst learning about how this species survives in the wild in India and Pakistan – and what we can do to protect them.”
The workshop is wheelchair accessible and with group sizes no bigger than 12 children, the centre’s dedicated team of staff and volunteers is able to cater the experience for children of different needs and abilities.
Parents and guardians are welcome to stay with their child at the centre, or to drop them off and pick them up later. Looking back at previous holiday workshops, one parent said, “This was fantastic for my two conservationists! They learned so much and had so much fun! An absolutely brilliant, enriching and memorable day!”
Another added, “It’s the people that make it, and the staff made the workshop truly special and memorable.”
The centre is also looking forward to hosting British Bird of Prey Day 2023 on the 19 of August, with two full native species flying displays, guest speakers, activities, children’s trails, stall holders and lots more. This special day is planned to inspire a passion for the raptors that can be spotted across the region, while teaching what can be done to protect wildlife.
The workshops cost £18.50 each (with a 20% discount if you quote bathlocalschools), with further details available at www.westofenglandfalconry.org.uk