LOCAL young people have been getting hands on with the environment, learning how to care for some of North Cornwall’s wildlife.

Reception pupils from Marhamchurch C of E Academy have been enjoying sessions led by the 2 Minute Foundation at Crooklets in Bude. The classes help children understand their seaside surroundings, develop practical skills, and build a connection to the natural world.

The pupils enjoyed investigating rock pools, spotting wildlife along the strandline, and learning about dunes, tides, and marine mammals. Games, stories, and songs helped bring the sessions to life, while Morvil, the 2 Minute whale, has been a regular visitor, reminding everyone that “it only takes two minutes to make a difference.”

The children have put their learning into action by picking up litter to reduce plastic pollution, looking after sea creatures, and respecting their fragile homes.

Deirdre Petersen, headteacher at Marhamchurch C of E Academy, has praised the sessions, saying that it is wonderful to watch the children’s curiosity in action.

She said: “It has been wonderful to see our youngest pupils exploring the beach with such curiosity and care. They have shown a real understanding of how their actions can make a difference, and it’s fantastic to see them putting what they’ve learned into action.”

Tracey Cleverly, CEO of Learning Academy Partnership, added that it is experiences such as these that help young people develop respect for the world around them.

She explained: ”Experiences like this help children develop a lifelong respect for the world around them. By working with partners such as the 2 Minute Foundation, pupils are able to learn in meaningful, hands-on ways that build confidence, curiosity and responsibility. It is inspiring to see our youngest learners already recognising that even small actions can have a positive impact on their environment and community.”