Garnock Estuary bird sanctuary

Pupils at Irvine Royal Academy worked with Irvine Bay to develop ideas for a bird sanctuary in the Bogside area of the Garnock estuary. This project is part of the Green Network being developed by Irvine Bay around the Irvine area. The project also links with plans to develop the area as a coastal park.

The project provided pupils with the opportunity to research their local area, working towards creating an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) which will encourage locals and tourists to visit the area. Our partners in this project are RSPB, Greenspace Scotland and the Forestry Commission.

The project included

• Involving S1 Social Studies students in developing their ideas and presenting their work to a panel of experts
• Encouraging young people to participate in the regeneration process in their area
• Connecting with Curriculum for Excellence, creating a strong cross- curricular project.

Overall, the project stimulated thought about new developments in the area for the benefit of residents and visitors, encouraged pupils to consider healthy lifestyles and provided opportunities for them to build their skills for life, work and learning.