By Ruby and Katie, Reservoir Ambassadors

Hello! My name is Ruby and I’m one of your Reservoir Ambassadors. I’m really proud to introduce our newest ambassador, Katie! We’ve both been chosen to represent the school because we’re enthusiastic about our local environment and love finding out what’s happening at the reservoir. Our job is to ask questions, share information, and keep everyone in school updated — and this is our very first newsletter!

This term we met with the Environmental Team as part of our ambassador role. We had the chance to share all the things we’ve been doing in school to learn more about the reservoir. You might have seen our Reservoir Board in the school office area — it’s full of pictures, facts, and news about what’s going on locally.

During our meeting, the Environmental Team and Ecology Workers told us about the amazing work they’ve been doing to look after wildlife. One of the most interesting things we learned was that many animals — including frogs, toads, newts, lizards, slow worms, and snakes — have been safely moved (that’s called translocated) from the reservoir area to new habitats where they can thrive.

We also found out about bat boxes that help protect bats and special shelters built to give other creatures safe places to live. Afterwards, we got to make our own mini bug hotels in the outdoor classroom! We’re hoping some creepy crawlies move in soon.

Next, we visited Memory Park to see how the area is recovering after the fire earlier this year. Lots of children had been worried about what happened to the trees and animals, but we’re really happy to report that nature is bouncing back! The plants, shrubs and trees are all recovering well, and the park looks green and healthy again.

The Portsmouth Water Team told us they plan to install cameras and signs to help stop people from doing anything that could damage the park in future — which we think is a brilliant idea.

If you have any questions about the reservoir, or want us to find something out, please let us know! We’d love to include your ideas in our next edition.

Next term we’ll be working on some exciting new projects, including an art project and a science study comparing the wildlife in our outdoor classroom to the wildlife around the reservoir.

Thanks for reading, and keep your eyes open for more Reservoir News!