Hedgehogs and seals were just some of the creatures seen by young environmentalists when they visited a wildlife centre.
The student members of the Environmental Society at Lynn’s Springwood High School had raised more than £100 for RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre, which is one of the largest seal rehabilitation centres in the country, helping more than 150 of the injured or orphaned creatures every year.
Agnieszka Munns, the school’s environmental lead, who accompanied the group, said: “This was a reward trip for the students’ fundraising efforts over the academic year – efforts that included bake sales, daffodil sales, Mother’s and Father’s Day sales and, most recently, Sir David Attenborough’s birthday celebrations.
The school has donated more than £100 to the centre along with towels and newspapers
“The school donated over £100 to the RSPCA centre, along with towels and newspapers which could be used to assist with caring for the thousands of animals that are treated there every year.”
The students were given a tour of the centre, and there was also the chance for the visitors to gain some practical experience.
Mrs Munns said: “A highlight of the visit was being able to feed some of the rescued seals, and watching an anaesthetised hedgehog being treated for ticks and bacterial infection.
Learning more about the animals and their care
“Such hands-on opportunities provided a unique insight, and developed greater appreciation for the medical treatment and care which injured animals are able to receive at the centre.
“Our students were immersed in the experience right from the start, showing curiosity, and confidently asking questions about the different treatments the animals were receiving.”
She added: “A major aim for the visit was to engage and inspire pupils who might one day become part of the next generation of vets, medical staff, nature conservationists, volunteers, and carers for wildlife.
“All the students really enjoyed the visit, and found it inspirational to be immersed in the extraordinary work being done at East Winch.”
A highlight was being able to feed some of the rescued seals
Springwood is part of West Norfolk Academies Trust.
Springwood students were given a tour of the centreSeals are among the injured wildlife being cared for at the East Winch centreOne of the seals receiving treatment at the centre