Ravenswood school nurtures its nature reserve

The densely populated area of Ravenswood doesn’t share the same status as Cumbernauld Community Park, Palacerigg or Cumbernauld Glen but it is a green lung none the less.

And it’s a highly functioning one too. Because despite its proximity to a motorway Ravenswood has its own bog and orchid meadow where five different species of the plant can be seen.

And it’s both a haven and a refuge for local wildlife.

Foxes and roe deer live and breed here, kestrels and buzzards are often seen over the open meadows and there is a variety of moths, butterflies and other insects.

These in turn support creatures such as hedghogs and frogs.

Naturally that’s great news for pupils of Ravenswood Primary who are just a short walk away from this hidden treasure.

And months of classwork within the Eco Commitee, Park Rangers from North Lanarkshire Council and even local firefighters have made the area an even nicer place to be. The curriculum has included the hatching of tadpoles and the creation of a storytelling pole, which bears lovingly etched carvings of bats, owls and the like - all designed by the children.

Reports in the press last week stated that youngsters were more likely to be familiar with a dalek than a magpie but that’s NOT the case at Ravenswood Primary who are immersed in the natural world.

Teacher Irene Cook said: “What a resource we have here!

“It’s just on our doorstep and we are very very lucky to have it so nearby. The children love it and are very enthusiastic about all the different species we have here.’’

That view was reinforced by NLC biodirversity officer Laura McCrory who has worked closely with the youngsters.

She said: “Because the children are so close to this area, they just seem to know so much about what is actually here - and they have been able to tell me so much about it.’’

By way of an Easter treat, the pupils celebrated the launch of their new totem pole and showcased the work they had been doing to a group of special guests, including the News and Chronicle team.