As part of its first year visiting the UK, The Salmon School initiative was warmly embraced by students and teachers at Standlake C of E Primary School in Oxfordshire. Coordinated by the Cotswolds Rivers Trust, in partnership with the Rivers Trust and Thames Rivers Trust, the program offered Year 6 students a captivating blend of science, art, geography, and natural history.
Over three immersive sessions, students explored the hidden world of the nearby River Windrush. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, they unveiled the rich variety of life beneath the water's surface.
Bring the River Windrush to the classroom
While no Atlantic salmon DNA was detected, the findings revealed a host of other fish species, including lamprey, roach and brown trout — the species being championed by the school. A kick-sampling session on the riverbank also brought the students face-to-face with invertebrate indicator species, such as mayflies (including particularly beautiful blue-winged olives), cased and caseless caddisflies, and a host of freshwater shrimp — all important markers of river health.
As well as scientific observation, students observed as artists. Taking in the wider river environment, looking and listening to the Windrush, collecting fallen willow leaves and strips of bark, and making “paints” from river bank mud and grasses ground up with a pestle and mortar. The river habitat itself becoming part of artistic interpretations of the environment.
Sparking curiosity and inspiring action
The program nurtured curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Through activities blending natural history with artistic expression, pupils examined challenges — such as pollution and habitat loss — facing rivers like the Windrush, and envisioned innovative solutions.
Jack Knott, Trust Manager for the Cotswolds Rivers Trust, praised the initiative, saying:
“The Salmon School is about bringing people closer to their rivers and understanding the crucial role they play in our lives. Using art and science, we are telling a story that connects children to nature and inspires them to protect it.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Rivers Trust and Thames Rivers Trust in bringing The Salmon School initiative to the UK, and we’re incredibly grateful to Standlake School for their enthusiasm and commitment. Together, we are showing that the health of our rivers is a shared responsibility.”
Steve Brown, Teacher and Deputy Head, said:
“Located so close to the River Windrush, many of our children’s lives are impacted by the river. Watching them engage so positively in this exciting project was a pure joy for us. As well as learning so much about the geography of the river and science of habitats, the children have produced some stunning natural artwork. But, perhaps most importantly, they have learnt how valuable it is to ‘collaborate in conservation’ and care for the river on their doorstep.”
During the final session the Year 6 class were joined online by renowned artist Joseph Rosanno and were presented a truly unique glass salmon sculpture.
Looking ahead, the Cotswolds Rivers Trust aims to expand the initiative to more schools in the region, inspiring even more young minds to engage with their local rivers and ecosystems. If you would like to be involved or benefit from The Salmon School then please contact the Cotswolds Rivers Trust today!
