Schoolchildren Take Up Spring LEAF Eco Challenge

More than 3,000 pupils from 36 schools across Rochdale borough have taken part in a range of environmental and nature activities to herald the changing of the seasons.

The Local Environmental Action Fortnight (LEAF) began in 2004 and was developed by the Countryside Ranger Service, in partnership with Rochdale's Education for Sustainability Network (RESN).

Councillor Donna Martin, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said: “Having this event take place in the spring, as well as the autumn, has really given students the chance to appreciate the seasonal changes that take place over the year. The two different weeks also enable us to offer a greater range of activities for everyone to get involved with.

The youngsters took part in a week of activities in both autumn and spring/summer including pond dipping at Springfield Park followed by laboratory testing, small animal, reptile and insect handling, Trashion fashion show with creations made out of waste materials, bug hotel making, mini beasts, using recycled materials in gardening, Fairtrade School Award, landfill site visit, renewable energy challenge, litter surveys, map reading, grow your own fruits and vegetables, woodland walk tree study and making jam jar wormeries.

Hazel Harding, chair of inspiredspaces, said: “inspiredspaces is dedicated to increasing opportunity for the young people of Rochdale borough and so it’s great to see more than 30 Schools and almost 3,000 students taking part in this week's LEAF activities. inspiredspaces is delighted to be able to help raise awareness of the opportunities available across the borough and this week’s environmental and sustainability themed workshops are doing just this.”