Clare Hamilton
- Subject(s):
- Science, History, Geography
- Curriculum Strands:
- Local Studies (History), Early people and ancient societies (History), Life, society, work and culture in the past (History), Continuity and change over time (History), Human environments (Geography), Natural environments (Geography), Environmental awareness and care (Geography/Science), Living things (Science), Materials (Science), Energy and forces (Science)
- Counties catered for:
- Carlow, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow
- Classes catered for:
- All Classes
Clare is passionate about protecting and restoring habitat for our disappearing wildlife by reconnecting children with the wonders hidden around them. She has lots of experience giving classroom biodiversity talks, running bug hunts, pond dipping sessions, scavenger hunts, wildflower walks and bat walks with local Scout and community groups of all ages.
Of most importance to Clare is spreading knowledge – ensuring children are aware of their local landscape and the habitats within, exploring soil, flowers, invertebrates, seeds, mushrooms, leaves, twigs and trees. They will be shown how to identify our different pollinators and their wildflower habitats, how beetles, worms and wasps are essential recyclers, how bat detectors work and how a microscope can unlock hidden wonders!
Maps and mapping sites are used to show how changing landscape has influenced the local area over time and how the Irish placenames connect our natural habitat to history, geography and mythology. Children will have a chance to rename the new landmarks they relate to in their area and discuss the changes. Tá na logainmneacha an-tabhachtacht chun stair an cheantar a chur in iúl agus tá Gaeilge líofa ag Clare chun caint fúthu! Finally, children will be shown that their voice is powerful in advocating for their environment with meaningful actions to release their inner Nature Warrier workshop and the Teach your Teacher workshops to help their grown-ups to step away from the lawn mower!
A qualified M.Eng and SNA, Clare is now dedicated to biodiversity enhancement, working for the NBDC to survey pollinators, volunteering with Stepping Stone Forests and Dodder Action and as Biodiversity Officer for a local community group.
Testimonials
"Clare was an amazing presenter, the boys were deeply engaged with the lesson at all times. Clare left a huge impact on the classroom and her clear messaging meant the boys went home with a clear understanding of how they can help with biodiversity on an ongoing basis" - St. Mary’s BNS, Dublin
"I would highly recommend Clare to other schools. Clare spoke with passion and knowledge of all matters biodiversity. Her presentation in class was excellent and the outdoor searching activity was relevant and very worthwhile. She was professional, confident and relaxed amongst staff and children alike during her full day visit." - Talbot SNS, Dublin
"A very informative visit from a truly committed, professional." - St Colmcilles JNS, Dublin
"Clare was an amazing facilitator. Her knowledge of her field was really evident. Also the fact that she can present through faultless Irish was a real addition for us as a Gaelscoil. The children really loved all elements of the day especially the hands on outdoor component. The students will remember this day and it gave them a chance to experience something that would not have been possible in their normal school day." - Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna, Dublin
"This was a very positive experience for the children and the school. We very much appreciated Clare's lively and informative presentation and that she could deliver the content through Gaeilge." - Scoil an tSeachtar Laoch, Dublin
"Our pupils absolutely loved the biodiversity workshop with Clare. They spent almost 2 hours outdoors finding all sorts of insects and the children were fully engaged the whole time. We were lucky to have the workshop provided through Irish with Clare too." - Gaelscoil na Giúise, Dublin
"Very pleased with Clare's visit. She was so kind and patient with the children and their wide ranging needs. The children couldn't believe how many different creatures are living among us!" - Firhouse ETNS, Dublin
"Very positive engaging experience for the children which incorporated discussion, group work and the hands-on learning in the outdoor environment." - Kilmainhamawood NS, Meath
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 7975048
- Email:
- The.Homeless.Caterpillar@gmail.com