Following their science lesson in the school gardens, Years 5 and 6 have been out on a trip with Tanya Eyre, from the Fylingdales Moor Environmental Stewardship Scheme, to look at the wonderful moorland habitat which we are so lucky to have on our doorstep.

We followed the Jugger Howe Nature Trail and learnt all about the moorland wildlife from Tanya. On the way round we saw meadow pipits and a skylark, heard a cuckoo, and also found Northern Eggar Moth caterpillars and Tiger Beetles. We also found out all about North Yorkshire’s equivalent to the Venus Flytrap, the insect-trapping Sundew. The children really enjoyed an activity which involved sitting quietly for three minutes and just listening, and a game of Lizards and Spiders, a wildlife version of Tig! We only glimpsed the Common Lizard as it disappeared into the grass, but we did manage to find a beautiful slow worm, which also proved to be very patient as it let everyone hold it and posed for numerous photos! As we were walking back to the minibus, some of the group managed to spot a male adder, which finished off our day nicely!

The trail was enjoyed by all, and we learnt a lot, so thank you to Tanya for being such a knowledgeable guide. Thanks also to Mrs Harris and Miss Tominey for coming along.

Mrs Richardson

Junior School Teacher