FODC_in-FO winter 2024 22

The Council’s Climate Action Team has been busy throughout the District in recent months working with local schools to inspire action for biodiversity and Climate Change in the next generation. The Tullyvar BioBlitz! Sowing the seed The Council is once again pleased to be working with the Northern Ireland Forest Schools Association to deliver the Forest Schools programme in seven schools in the Fermanagh and Omagh area during 2024-2025. As part of the programme, each school will receive: four practical sessions at a site of their choice; a Forest Schools Starter Kit Bag which includes learning resources; and an official NI Forest Schools Association Plaque to display in the school. The programme is an exciting opportunity to take the classroom outdoors so the children can learn in an innovative way helping to develop their curiosity and exploration, connect with the local landscape and nature and understand more about the rich biodiversity in the District. It also instils a sense of civic pride in the environment and the District in the hope of inspiring other young people and family. Climate Corner The Outdoor Classroom 22 in-FO in Fermanagh & Omagh | Spring 2024 | Winter This fun practical experience enabled the children to get outdoors and connect with nature, whilst learning about the importance of the natural environment and the need to protect it. The Climate Action Team visited a number of local schools to plant fruit and vegetable seeds with the young people. As well as planting the seeds, they also learnt about the benefits and the importance of growing your own fruit and vegetables to help the environment and enjoy fresh produce whilst saving money. While at a Playgroup, the children planted Sunflower seeds and learnt how to look after them - so they can watch them grow tall - and how they benefit pollinators such as bees. Young people from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Mid Ulster District Council areas joined together for a number of fun and interactive workshops. The Fermanagh and Omagh Primary Schools included Cooley (Sixmilecross), McClintock (Seskinore), Roscavey (Omagh) and St Brigid’s Altamuskin. The pupils had the opportunity to build a bee home, create No Dig beds, conduct insect surveys, make seed balls, go pond dipping and plant sunflower and pea seed in their own handmade paper pots. For more information on any projects, get in touch by emailing biodiversity@fermanaghomagh.com