Summer time = Safari time

After some changeable weather of late, some good......most not so good, we are finally arriving into the summer proper. Hopefully this means a lot of sunshine and very little rain. While the summer means many different things for different people such as the Euro 2012, the Eurovision, School holidays, it means just one thing for the schools in the Explorers programme - Beach Safaris!!!

Yes it is that wonderful time of year again when we take students to their local beaches to look for animals and plants so they can understand firsthand how life interacts on their doorstep. Schools embark on these safaris usually once every two years and they tend to run from May-June and September-October. I find there are two things that when used together make the perfect learning experience. Hands on interaction and fun. If these two criteria are met the benefit is to all involved is greatly increased. Luckily the seashore safaris deliver on these fronts.

There are a number of schools getting ready to don their wellies and rain gear (with the hopes of not needing it) and head to the beach to explore this unique and amazing ecosystem. Fanore N.S, Kilkee N.S, Liscannor N.S, Lahinch N.S and Rosmuc N.S to name but a few.

With a beach safari it is extremely important to have as little impact as possible. Any rocks we turn over we must put back carefully, any animals we catch must be returned to their homes. We are guests on their beach and they deserve to be treated kindly.

So ready the nets and buckets and prepare to venture to our favourite summer destinations- The best beaches and rocky shores in Ireland!!