Koputaroa School goes to the Birds

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Students Jordan Robinson, Matt Peel and Connor Close pose with their takahe quilt

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Room 3 Koputaroa School proudly hold up their takahe quilt

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Hannah Lacey and Perry Rackley pose by their kiwi and kakapo mural.

18 December 2007

Koputaroa School goes to the Birds

Brightly coloured birds appear to fly as they adorn Koputaroa School’s room three. Crimson and turquoise painted takahe pictures hang on the walls while huge kiwi and kakapo greet visitors on a classroom mural by the door.

Teacher Sue Robinson has a passion for conservation. She recently participated in volunteer work with kakapo on Codfish Island and had an experience of a life time. “I want to share my enthusiasm of conservation and our native wildlife with my students,” says Mrs. Robinson. Her pupils have been studying the plight of New Zealand’s endemic birds: the kiwi, kakapo and the takahe.

Her students recently brainstormed a unique idea to help birds in need. All 26 students drew and painted brightly coloured takahe on material. A mum then sewed all the pieces together in a distinctive and beautiful quilt. The class then sold raffle tickets at a school function with proceeds to be donated to takahe recovery. “The students love learning about nature and they feel great about giving something back,” comments Mrs. Robinson.

Principal Martyn Dowman is impressed with the school’s conservation theme. “We plan on becoming a more environmentally engaged and focused school – it benefits everyone,” said Mr Dowman.

ENDS

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