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Sheffield Park Academy make maps as easy as ABC!
January 2010
Ordnance Survey and Natural England encourage map reading in a Sheffield school to encourage pupils to learn about and make the most of the outdoors.
Sheffield Park Academy took part in a new scheme between Ordnance Survey and Natural England in November, to learn more about map reading and the thrill of exploring.
Ordnance Survey (OS) Explorer maps were provided to Year 7 pupils as part of their nationwide Free Maps for 11 Year Olds scheme. Natural England provided The Language of Landscape’ education guide for teachers which features lesson ideas, inventive games and tips on how to incorporate map learning into the school curriculum. These were produced in conjunction with the Geographical Association.
As well as providing information to teachers, the initiative is designed to encourage children and their families to get out and about and explore their local area.
Jeff Lunn, Natural England’s Area Manager said, “Maps are a great way for children to learn about the natural environment. Not only can they open up a new world by showing hidden gems in a local area, but they give children the chance to explore what’s there – whether it’s a national park or a wildlife site.”
Gordon Mackenzie, geography teacher at Sheffield Park Academy added “It is really important that young people, especially from inner city area, are given every opportunity and encouragement to explore and investigate the world beyond their immediate locality and environment. Initiatives such as these from Ordnance Survey and Natural England are a very welcome addition in helping our school to achieve this.”
Jeff Lunn was joined by MP Richard Caborn to present the maps to the children in the schools and take part in a map reading exercise with the class before they headed outdoors for local walks, using the maps to navigate.
Richard Caborn MP said in Sheffield: “It has been great to see the children exploring the maps in the classroom and it is good that they are now going out to see how that looks on the ground. What a good way to start getting out and about. This is a great scheme and I wish it every success.”
Jeff concluded, “The natural environment is there to be explored by children, it is their right. The memories they collect from it stay with them as adults and inspire them to pass on a healthy environment for future generations.”
After the visit, pupils went out to the Peak National Park for a walk using the maps and pedometers donated to the Y7s by Natural England. They started at Upper Burbage and ended up at Grindleford Station Café. To view photos from the walk click the link below to view the gallery.
To download Natural England’s ‘The Language Of Landscape’ brochure, view the photos of pupils at Sheffield Park Academy or look at the please click the links below.
The Language Of Landscape
Natural England’s Resources Page
Sheffield Park Academy Photo Gallery
Documents
The Language Of Landscape [Adobe Acrobat PDF - 2.82 MB]
