World Biodiversity Day: Year 3 ‘Night for Nature’ EcoCamp

Last weekend, Year 3 students from Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi embarked on an exciting journey of exploration and discovery during our annual EcoCamp. Themed 'Night for Nature', this year’s EcoCamp was timed to align with World Biodiversity Day, which fell on Monday, 22 May.

Throughout the duration of the camp, the students engaged in hands-on learning activities focused on biodiversity. They conducted surveys of the local area around the College, identifying a variety of insects, birds, and signs of mammal activity. This research allowed them to catalogue and understand the diverse species living right on their doorstep, and take active steps to promote biodiversity by creating bird brush piles.

More than just an opportunity to connect classroom learning with the natural environment, the 'Night for Nature' EcoCamp provided many firsts for our Year 3 students. For most, it was their first overnight trip, and for some, their first camping experience. Despite these new challenges, the students displayed incredible resilience, supporting each other while embracing the challenges of outdoor learning. They even braved quite a rainy night in the tents. Bravo to our students for their perseverance.

EcoCamp served a two-fold purpose. On one hand, it allowed students to apply a scientific lens to the world around them, understanding local biodiversity in a hands-on manner. On the other, it instilled in them an appreciation for environmental sustainability. Students learned about the challenges facing local habitats and the solutions proposed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They discovered the unique and endangered wildlife around them and explored how they can contribute to protecting these species and supporting thriving habitats.

The camp culminated in a digital showcase of the students' work. They presented their findings and recommendations on platforms like Padlets and Flipgrid, focusing on the promotion of biodiversity and potential projects for future tree plantings. The students also shared their experiences and feedback with students from other Dulwich Colleges across the family of schools, furthering fostering our global community.