Catherine Twomey - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

Catherine Twomey

Catherine Twomey
Catherine Twomey 8
Catherine Twomey 7
Catherine Twomey 6
Catherine Twomey 5
Catherine Twomey 4
Catherine Twomey 3
Catherine Twomey 2
Catherine Twomey 1
Subject(s):
Science, History, Geography
Curriculum Strands:
Natural environments (Geography), Environmental awareness and care (Geography/Science), Living things (Science), Energy and forces (Science)
Counties catered for:
Carlow, Cork, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford
Classes catered for:
All Classes

Book in-person visit


All around the world biodiversity is in decline. If we do not know the names of species, how can we track their progress? After some preparatory work in the classroom, Catherine will help the children to discover the level of biodiversity in their environment by bringing them on walks to identify and learn about plant and animal species in their surroundings. She can also assist with enhancing the space that is around many schools to create a habitat for plants, pollinators, and other forms of wildlife, and through various activities help the children to understand the interrelationship of species from the soil up.

Can you tell a rook from a jackdaw? Or a blackbird from a starling? Did you know that the female blackbird is brown?

In this session, children will learn bird identification skills through direct and pictorial observation and the use of keys to highlight distinguishing characteristics. They will also learn to investigate how a bird’s features give us clues as to the kind of habitat and food it needs, and an understanding of its place is in the ecosystem.

Children will be guided to identify any trees in their surroundings and to search the grass for different-looking plants. A close inspection of lawns often reveals a variety of small plants and minibeasts. The children will learn the benefits of letting an area grow to enhance the habitat for pollinators and other forms of wildlife. A more detailed examination of the soil could be undertaken to find out what organisms are present. Activities could include making art, and leaf mould (to use as a soil improver), as well as games to help children understand the interconnectedness of life around us.

No grass, only hard surface? Catherine will help you to make a biodiversity-friendly container garden.

On-site visits facilitated to Tramore Eco Park and Beach to observe and learn about coastal plants, marine animals and birds, to hear stories of shipwrecks and conduct a simple experiment on magnetism.

Testimonials

  • "The children absolutely loved our visit from Catherine. She was so interesting, engaging, and informative. The children came away from the session with lots of new knowledge about minibeasts and birds and were eager to investigate in their own gardens once they got home. We are already looking forward to our next visit!" - Glór Na Mara, Waterford
  • "Delighted with Catherine. The children loved her and learnt much about our local lane and park." - Christ Church NS, Waterford
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  • "Delighted with our experience with Catherine from start to finish. Her preparation, knowledge and interaction with our boys were second to none." - Bishop Murphy Memorial School, Cork
  • "Catherine was very professional and enthusiastic and the children loved the experience and learned a lot" - Saint Senans NS, Kilkenny
  • "It was great having Catherine working with the children." - Scoil Chroi Iosa, Cork

Additional Information

  • Provides in-person visits
  • Caters for special needs
  • Provides practical/hands-on activities
  • Provides field trips
  • Visits as Gaeilge

Contact Details

Mobile:
087 6885643
Email:
cathtwomey1@gmail.com