Name Our Tadpole: A Creative Challenge for Younger years
An Exciting Opportunity for ELC, P1, and P2 Pupils in Highland
In the next exciting development in the Puddles to Ponds project we're calling on the creativity and enthusiasm of our youngest learners from nursery, Primary 1, and Primary 2 classes. The challenge? To name a charming new tadpole character that will star in an upcoming National Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust educational pack. This pack is centred around the wonders of freshwater ponds. This naming ritual has been reserved exclusively for Nursery to P2 school aged children in Highlands (home schooled children are most welcome to participate).
Introducing the Tadpole Star
Crafted by the talented illustrator Nikki Kulesza (who designed Newtrino, the Champhibians mascot), this new tadpole character will spring to life and become a gateway to learning and exploration for younger children. As part of our "Ponds to Puddles" project, which aims to educate children about local freshwater wildlife and ecosystems, this character will help bring to life the stories and science of pond environments.
However, our lively little tadpole needs a name, and who better to bestow it than the children who will learn from it?
Participation is straightforward and fun! Educators are encouraged to discuss this opportunity with their pupils and gather ideas for the tadpole’s name. We’re looking for creative, thoughtful names that reflect the character's aquatic life or personality. Once the children have settled on their favourite, email the suggestions to me at andy.summers@highlifehighland.com or reach out to your local ranger.
Please include a brief explanation of why the children chose this name—it’s always wonderful to hear the thoughts and reasoning behind their creative choices!
Prizes and Recognition
To make this challenge even more exciting, we are offering some cool nature based prizes for the child / nursery or class that comes up with the winning name. It’s a fantastic way to motivate our young learners and show appreciation for their efforts.
Important Details
- Who Can Enter: Nursery, Primary 1, and Primary 2 pupils from Highland schools.
- Deadline for Entries: 17th May.
- Email Your Entries: To andy.summers@highlifehighland.com
Collaboration
The High Life Highland Countryside Ranger Service "Ponds to Puddles" project is working in partnership with the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, aimed at enhancing our younger generation's understanding of amphibian and reptile habitats in our local ecosystems. Through this pack, and with the help of our new tadpole character, we aim to inspire a love of nature and conservation in children from an early age and develop the Champhibians!
We are thrilled about this creative endeavour and eagerly await the wonderful names our young participants will imagine. This is a chance to engage with our local environment and learn through active participation. Get involved, suggest a name, and be a part of this fun and educational journey!
Please help us publicise the tadpole naming - by sharing this post with schools and educators!
Many thanks,
Andy
PS: We also have a google classroom up and available packed with resources for older children’s learning on the same subject - email for more information.
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Andy Summers, North Highland's Senior Ranger for High Life Highland, is a dedicated naturalist with a deep understanding of the region's diverse ecosystems. His extensive experience in wildlife conservation and passion for preserving North Highland's pristine landscapes make him a vital asset. Andy's work encompasses wildlife observation, environmental education, and passing on a greater appreciation for the area's unique flora and fauna. His commitment to conserving North Highland's natural heritage is evident in his expertise and unwavering dedication.