Beryl Trenier with pupils Emily Harris, Pamela Dunne, Adam Dunne, Michael Wilson and Stephen Trenier of the Fairgreen NS (Belturbet) at the County Museum.

Kids learn and have fun... naturally!

Published: Fri 5 Mar 2010, 3:00 PM

More than 100 pupils representing 28 of Cavan's primary schools were at the County Museum last week for a launch that celebrated our wildlife and archaelogical treasures. It was a dual launch of Cavan Archaeology For Kids and Recording the Wildlife of County Cavan, both promoted by Cavan Heritage Office and funded by the Heritage Council and Cavan County Council. Eanna Ni Lamhna, from Mooney Goes Wild on RTE, was guest speaker. Cavan Archaeology For Kids is a colourful pack, which includes an introduction to the archaeological landscape of County Cavan with illustrations, photographs and puzzles. It includes descriptions of some of the archaeological monuments in County Cavan. Recording the Wildlife of County Cavan is a booklet with information on biodiversity in County Cavan identifying 16 species of flora and fauna in the county. An easy-to-read publication featuring a range of images, photographs, illustrations and quiz, it is aimed at all ages of people, particularly focusing on children. It will also contain recording forms and give information on the new online recording system which will be set up as part of this project. People are invited to record five of the main species in the booklet including squirrels, newts, swifts, spindle tree and botanically rich grassland. The recording forms are at the back of the booklet, and people can also use an online recording system. "It's about enjoyment and making heritage real for people," explained heritage officer, Anne-Marie Ward. "Each year the heritage office identifies projects which it wishes to undertake during the year. Projects vary from undertaking research through to working with children. One of core aims of the Heritage Plan is to promote heritage in the broader community. Because these subjects are on the curriculum now, it's also an educational resourse for teachers in a classroom setting." The schools that were at the launch will receive a follow-up visit from either Dr. Brendan Scott or Heather Bothwell. Tony O'Brien did illustrations and Paddy Ronaghan took a number of photographs for Recording the Wildlife of County Cavan, and Heather Brett did illustrations for Cavan Archaeology For Kids. "We were delighted to host the event and work with the schools and the heritage officer," said Savina Donohoe, Cavan County Museum. We try to facilitate any events we can that school-children will benefit from. It's very important as well as learning that they enjoy their visit and have fun." • Cavan Heritage Office will be posting the booklet and pack to all primary schools in Co. Cavan in the coming weeks. Contact the heritage office at amcurley@cavancoco.ie.