Teacher gives it some welly! (From Penarth Times)

Teacher gives it some welly!

A TEACHER from St Andrew's Major Church in Wales Primary School in Dinas Powys has taken over the hot seat at Dwr Cymru Welsh Water's environmental education centre at Cog Moors.

Rachel Jones, 32, who lives in Barry, has started a year's secondment at the centre.

Rachel will teach visiting schoolchildren about the environment and the importance of water.

Rachel, who teaches Year 4 and is Science Co-ordinator at St. Andrew's Major Primary, said: "I think it is vital for children to learn how important the environment is and how they can look after their surroundings.

"Hands-on lessons make it fun and a more memorable experience."

"Hopefully children and teachers can take what they learn at Cog Moors back to school and use it to develop their own lessons and school grounds," added Rachel.

The centre, which was established in 2002, has excellent wildlife habitats and a well-equipped classroom.

Depending on the lesson topic, pupils can take part in activities such as pond dipping, a tour of a waste water treatment works or go on a mini-beast safari.

Two wildflower meadow orienteering courses have also been recently developed.

Environment and Education Manager Jeff Morgan said: "This secondment allows teachers to spend time in industry, with the opportunity to develop both their teaching and management skills."