Pupils from Class 5 Johnson at St Philip Westbrook Church of England Primary School have been raising awareness of the Scottish wildcat as part of a courageous advocacy project.
After exploring a range of global issues, the class chose to focus on the plight of the Scottish wildcat, widely considered Britain’s most endangered mammal.
They spent several weeks researching the animal and learning about the challenges it faces, including habitat loss and crossbreeding with domestic cats.
Class teacher Mrs Pinner said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the children.
“Their commitment, enthusiasm and determination to create positive change have been truly inspirational.”
The pupils produced an educational video to share their findings, writing and performing an original hip-hop rap with the line: “These gentle creatures won’t leave a trace, their legacy should not be erased.”
They also wrote persuasive letters to Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols, who responded and plans to visit the school in the coming weeks.
The class went further by designing posters encouraging people to sponsor a Scottish wildcat and asking local businesses to display them.
Their campaign culminated in a community screening of their video, attended by parents and guests including the Deputy Mayor of Warrington, Councillor Maureen McLaughlin.
Children from St Philip CE in Westbrook have been campaigning (Image: UGC)
Cllr McLaughlin was so moved by the children’s passion that she pledged to sponsor a Scottish wildcat herself.
The pupils hope their efforts will inspire others to take action.
According to NatureScot, only 115 to 300 Scottish wildcats remain in the wild.
The children of Class 5 Johnson said they hope their work will encourage others to become advocates and help protect the species before it is lost forever.
Those interested in sponsoring a wildcat can find out more through the Saving Wildcats website.