Inspired by the RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch, children from Windmill Hill Day Nursery in Swindon were delighted to make their very own bird feeders.

Having spotted an array of species in the garden, as well as squirrels and other creatures, pre-schoolers from the setting on Windmill Hill Business Park, Whitehill Way, were keen to create bird feeder baskets, bottles and balls using lard and seeds in order to encourage more wildlife into the outdoor spaces for all to observe.

Using their fine motor skills, children crafted the feeders, before learning all about life cycles and how birds hatch from eggs to further the learning experience. The group went on to create ice balloons in different sizes to represent eggs of various animals.

At Windmill Hill, children take part in sustainable activities all year round, from planting and growing vegetables to crafting with natural and recycled materials, leading them to earn a prestigious ‘Green Flag’, the highest accolade in the internationally-recognised Eco-Schools programme, which is awarded for exceptional environmental awareness and conservation practices.