Education

The rich environment and heritage of London's waterways are an important education resource. Over 200 primary schools are within 5 minutes walk of the waterways and there are approximately 1200 primary schools in the boroughs bordering the waterways in the London region. British Waterways London has a dedicated learning services officer who works directly with approximately 3000 school children each year.

The WOW (Wild over Waterways) initiative is working nationally to enthuse young people about the inland waterways. In London, the learning services officer is supporting WOW by working with schools through a variety of classroom activities and organised trips to the waterway both on foot and by boat. The main focus of school support is through the statutory history and science curricular although there is a wider objective of encouraging young people to enjoy and value their local waterway.

Young people have been involved in constructing model bridges and tunnels, studying the wildlife found in and around the water and learning about the importance of the canal as a transport route. They have also been involved in environmental enhancement projects such as planting wildflowers and building bird rafts. Teachers are also supported with a set of free classroom resources called exploring the Regent's canal and activities and information on the WOW website.

Safety is our number one priority and we are one of five organisations involved in the Safer Waterways for London partnership to raise awareness of water safety issues across the capital, particular with young people. The water safety officer works with schools, community groups and voluntary organisations to deliver water safety training.