18/03/2014: WaterAid

A volunteer from WaterAid joined us yesterday to talk about the work that the charity undertakes throughout 26 different countries. It was a fascinating session and quite eye opening to some of us. I would like to write a whole essay on it but will stop myself and simply state that it is incredible to realise just how much difference having a local safe source of water can make to so many different aspects of peoples lives.

If anybody is interested in looking further into the issues that this charity tries to address resources can be found on their website, scroll down for lots of lesson plans including worksheets, powerpoint presentations, short films and even water based songs. Whilst this is obviously school based there is still a lot of good information and ideas of things to do here, I particularly liked their stand alone activities found at the bottom of the page.

Scout using a tip-tap, image from http://www.sendacow.org.uk/

As a follow on activity, in the summer term we will be making a tip-tap. We saw a photo of one of these being used during the talk, they are a simple way of providing hand washing facilities without wasting lots of water. If you fancy a head start instructions can be found here.

And for next time...

Our last session for this term will be taking place on the 1st April 2014. I am expecting a spring inspired session with lots of Easter crafts though I won't be surprised if a few gags make it in too for April Fools. We then break up for Easter and return on the 22nd April 2014.