Students given opportunity to experience Lough Neagh first-hand and develop a greater understanding of environment challenges
A pilot schools engagement programme has successfully been delivered by Lough Neagh Partnership involving Holy Trinity College, Cookstown, and The Henry Group of Companies in Magherafelt.
The engaging environmental programme aimed at year 13/14 pupils provided young people with a unique opportunity to experience Lough Neagh first-hand and develop a greater understanding of the environmental challenges currently facing the Lough. The programme combined an outdoor learning experience at Lough Neagh with classroom sessions connecting practical observation with curriculum-based learning and expert knowledge.
A range of topics were explored in the programme including water quality and the factors affecting it; blue-green algae and nutrient enrichment; biodiversity and the importance of healthy habitats; climate change and changing environmental conditions; human activity and our relationship with the Lough; and what communities, organisations, businesses and individuals can do to support its recovery.
Gerry Darby, Manager of Lough Neagh Partnership, said: “Lough Neagh is one of our most important natural assets so it’s critical for the next generation to appreciate its unique environment.
“This programme demonstrates the value of bringing education, environmental expertise and business together to support our young people. Lough Neagh Partnership engaged with Henry Brothers and Holy Trinity College, Cookstown, to create a meaningful learning experience that connects environmental science with practical examples of sustainability and responsible environmental management.
“By bringing students to the Lough and encouraging them to experience it first-hand, we can help them connect what they learn in the classroom with the real-world issues affecting the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
“From water quality and biodiversity to sustainable farming and habitat restoration, there are many interconnected issues to explore. We wanted students to leave with a better understanding of the beauty of Lough Neagh and its shoreline, together with the challenges and, most importantly, a sense that they can play a positive role in the Lough’s future.
“We believe this initiative will be the starting point for a longer-term approach to environmental education around Lough Neagh. By working with schools and businesses, we can develop opportunities for more young people to learn about the Lough, understand its ecological and cultural importance, and become ambassadors for its protection. The lessons from this pilot programme will help us explore how this partnership approach can be developed and extended in the future.”
Michael Stevenson of Holy Trinity College said: "We are absolutely delighted to have collaborated with the Lough Neagh Partnership on this exciting project. In addition to our interactive in-school workshops, the educational boat trip from Ballyronan Marina offered our Holy Trinity College students an invaluable hands-on learning experience. It has been a wonderful opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world environmental education, raising awareness among our young people about the vital ecological challenges facing Lough Neagh."
Felicia Bumblys, Social Value Co-Ordinator, The Henry Group of Companies, said: “Henry Brothers were pleased to be a part of this project with Holy Trinity College and the Lough Neagh Partnership. As a responsible local business, we’re committed to supporting the communities and environments around us, so it was fantastic to play a role in an initiative like this.
“We want to thank Lough Neagh Partnership and Holy Trinity College for giving us the opportunity to play our part in raising awareness of the importance of protecting our local environment.”