Bringing biodiversity and history into the (outdoors) classroom
The Crofthouse Museum has closed after a busy season and it’s been so good to see folk back again. One project we delivered over the summer months was an outreach partnership between our cultural and natural heritage teams and pupils from the nearby Dunrossness Primary School.
Over four afternoons we introduced pupils to the history of the traditional 19th century thatched crofthouse; and explained the importance of Shetland biodiversity and how we can all support it. Together we rolled up our sleeves and planted native trees (Eared Willow, Common Alder, Downy Birch) and plants (Thrift, Honeysuckle, Juniper, Orchids, Scabious, Primroses and Dog Roses) in the Peerie Garden and Lower field and created wildlife refuges for bees, birds, butterflies and bugs!
We think it’s going to grow into a beautiful space that all of us can enjoy.
Thank you to Dunrossness pupils and teachers for helping us make this project a reality.
Working together to create the perfect insect refuge
Pupils gather supplies for their bug hotels.
Peerie Garden Map showing where the native Shetland trees and plants have been planted
Find out more about the Shetland Crofthouse Museum.
Note: This was a pilot project to create activities we could reuse for schools who would like to engage their classes with Shetland biodiversity and natural heritage.
Above Crofthouse images were taken by Alexa
