Creature Features and River Music
We have recently developed a new learning programme addressing the key challenges facing the River Tyne today, including climate change, river health, and industrial heritage. The programme combines expert-led learning with creative activities over multiple sessions, delivered in collaboration with local schools, artists and organisations.
At St James’ Roman Catholic V.A Primary School in Hebburn, Year 3 pupils explored the theme of climate change. One session focused on flooding and sustainable urban drainage; another examined how climate change affects wildlife. Working with sound artist David de la Haye, pupils used hydrophones to listen to underwater life at Hebburn Quarry Ponds. Back in the classroom, they created their own soundscapes using found objects, narration, and music — a joyful and imaginative experience for all. This was supported by funding from The Shears Foundation.
Newbrough Primary School is exploring river health. In one session, pupils learned about habitats and endangered species, designing imaginative river creatures from playdoh, each adapted to survive in a river ecosystem. Their next session includes a field trip to Kielder to investigate water quality and indicator species. Local artist, Steve Pardue, will guide pupils in creating nature journals to document their learning.
West Denton Primary School will engage with the River Tyne’s industrial heritage, in partnership with Tyne Tunnel 2 and a local willow artist.
Last week children visited our Tyne Interactive Model (TIM) on Tour in Newcastle City Library, 270 children joined us over three days. TIM will be touring around other venues in the catchment over the next two years. These sessions are generously funded by Reece Foundation.
Throughout the programme, pupils also take part in Philosophy for Children (P4C) sessions to develop critical thinking and explore complex environmental questions.
Many young people today have limited access to nature due to urban environments and other barriers. By bringing the river to them through hands-on, creative, and meaningful experiences, Tyne Rivers Trust is making environmental education both inclusive and impactful. We look forward to delivering the rest of the creative learning programme over coming months.
Photographs kindly provided with permission from St James’ Catholic Primary School.
