Tir a Môr brings learning to life in Gwynedd and Ynys Môn

A bilingual education resource Tir a Môr is being rolled-out to schools across Gwynedd and Ynys Môn after a warm welcome from Llŷn schools. The pack, updated in line with the Curriculum for Wales, covers new topics introducing learners to the country’s land, river, and sea habitats through accessible, real-life learning experiences.

Packs are being delivered to all schools across Gwynedd and Ynys Môn and feature 49 activities across 14 topics - each rooted in the landscapes and species found in Wales. Learners can simulate how oysters filter water, build edible coral models, test water turbidity and map local wildlife sightings among other immersive tasks.

The initiative is the result of collaboration between Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau  Special Area of Conservation and the Llŷn Partnership, with input from a wide range of national and local partners, including professionals working in Wales’ environmental sector. It is co-ordinated through Cyngor Gwynedd’s Pen Llŷn a’r Sarnau Special Area of Conservation team.

Councillor Craig ab Iago, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member for the Environment said:

 “The Tir a Môr resource is all about encouraging young people to understand and care for the natural world around them - through real examples and practical tasks. It’s also an opportunity for them to really get to know their local area from a new perspective.

“During the climate emergency we’re facing, it’s more important than ever before to help young people see their place within our ecosystem - and the impact humans have on wildlife and vice versa.”

To mark the launch, learners at Ysgol Cymerau, Pwllheli took part in an interactive science session led by Awen Ashworth- founder of STEM education organisation, Sbarduno. Pupils investigated water acidity and explored the pink sea fan through hands-on experiments drawn directly from the resource.

Rowena Jones, a teacher at Ysgol Cymerau, said: “Not only does this resource support cross-curricular skills including literacy, numeracy and digital competence, it’s also suitable for a broad range of learners, from age 5 all the way to 14.

“What’s more, as a teacher, it’s extremely easy to make use of the resource, with handy introductions, how-to guides, discussion prompts and worksheets for each topic. All of which can be adapted for use in the classroom, school grounds and wider local environment.”

This term, every school in Gwynedd and Ynys Môn will receive a hard copy of the resource, giving pupils across both counties the chance to explore their local environments through exciting, hands-on learning. 

Anglesey’s Education and Welsh Language portfolio holder, Councillor Dafydd Roberts, said:

“The launch of the Land and Sea Education Pack is an exciting step forward in our commitment to environmental education here on Anglesey. This resource not only connects our children with the land, sea and rivers that shape our island’s identity, but also supports the Council’s strategic vision of creating an Anglesey that is healthy and prosperous where people can thrive. By investing in education that celebrates our natural heritage, we are inspiring the next generation to care for their environment and communities.”

Digital materials including activities, worksheets and resources are also available to all online. Please visit: www.tiramor.cymru