Kalēti Music and Art School

Shrek kids – swamp inhabitants

Kalēti, Latvia

3rd FUNDING CALL

The “Shrek Kids – Swamp Inhabitants” project is an inspiring initiative that brings students face-to-face with the wonders of their local ecosystem, specifically the Dunikas Marsh. This year-long adventure combines scientific inquiry, hands-on environmental action, and creative expression to foster a deep understanding of wetland environments. It’s a project that showcases the power of experiential learning and community engagement, and we’re excited to share its journey.

Objectives: Nurturing Swamp Stewards

The project’s objectives are designed to cultivate environmental awareness and responsibility:

• Introduce Swamp Ecosystems: To familiarize students with the Dunikas Marsh and its ecological significance.
• Promote Environmental Awareness: To educate students about their impact on nature and the importance of sustainability.
• Utilize Experiential Learning: To employ hands-on workshops and field studies to create a deeper understanding of natural environments.
• Foster a Sense of Agency: To empower students to become active protectors of local freshwater resources.

Activities and Collaborations: A Journey of Discovery

The project employs a diverse range of activities and fosters strong collaborations:

• Theoretical Preparation: Classroom learning using modern teaching materials and integrating project themes into various subjects.
• Field Workshops: Hands-on exploration and learning in Dunikas Marsh and a nearby beech grove.
• Summer Camp: An immersive environmental experience organized by school staff.
• Community Events: “Briedens” reunion, guest lectures, and friendship meetings.
• Educational Trips: Visits to nature houses, museums, and national parks.
• Environmental Cleanup: Students will remove and sort trash from the marsh and beech grove.
• Biodiversity Studies: Students will document plant, animal, bird, and insect species.
• Creative Expression: Students will prepare reports, presentations, and a concert program about swamp life.
• Community Outreach: Students will share their experiences and environmental messages with other schools.
• Teacher Resource Development: Creation of teaching materials, activity plans, and camp organization plans.

The project includes collaboration with:

• Priekule Secondary School
• Liepaja Nature House
• Riga Natural Museum
• National Parks in Latvia

Outputs and Impact: Growing Environmental Champions

The project generates valuable outputs and creates a lasting impact:

Long term sustainability: The project aims to give students an understanding of sustainability that they will use in their future.

Increased Student Awareness: Students gain a deeper understanding of swamp ecosystems and environmental issues.

Practical Environmental Action: Students actively participate in cleanup and biodiversity documentation.

Creative Expression: Students develop artistic and musical performances to convey environmental messages.

Educational Resources: Teachers create and share teaching materials and activity plans.

Community Engagement: Students share their experiences with other schools and the wider community.

Media Coverage: Project descriptions and videos are published on school websites and local news pages.

Teacher Development: Experience sharing at international teacher conferences.