Beaver in the River Avon (image by Aleks Domanski)
In 2024 we were invited by Grow Batheaston and The Beaver Trust to take part in a nationwide initiative, aimed at reconnecting people with one of Britain’s most iconic of native animals – the Beaver. We were delighted to take part, as our school is a stones throw away from the River Avon, where a growing number of Beavers are in resident. We welcomed Marian Hill, an insect artist, willow artist Julie Starks and award winning wildlife film-maker Aleks Domanski to the school, where the children took part in a variety of art workshops.
The Beaver Trust is a nature restoration charity, established in September 2019, run by a small team with expertise in conservation, ecology and land management. They provide practical solutions to help people live alongside beavers and support legislation that rebuilds ecosystems and strengthens climate resilience in a time of ecological and climate crisis. Please click on link below to access information about the Beaver Trust and their work.
In May 2024, pupils across the whole school took part in art workshops, this was in conjunction with the Beaver Festival in Batheaston. Please see the videos below of the lovely footage Aleks Domanski took whilst working with the children and whilst filming along the river Avon. Please click on the links below.
In March 2024, Aleks, Julie and Marion joined the children to take part in more art workshops, this time based upon river species unique to these habitats. River pollution was also a hot topic and one that the children felt strongly about. Again our beautiful Mike’s Meadow formed the backdrop for the willow art, with semi permanent structures built for the children to develop and enjoy. The collage work produced with Marion will be used by the National Trust for signage at the Bathampton Meadows.
Collage animals with Marion Hill
Willow Art with Julie Starks
