Supporting young birdwatchers: Housebuilder donates kit to Cradley Heath school

A housebuilder has donated birdwatching equipment to Old Hill Primary School in Cradley Heath to help its children join in the 2026 Big Schools’ Birdwatch.

By contributor Mark Sheppard
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Barratt Homes gifted nest boxes, a bird station, feeders, a large bag of bird seed and binoculars to the school, located near the housebuilder’s Anvil Place development, to utilise for the outdoor activity.

The RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a simple bird survey for pupils to take part in and enjoy together, encouraging them to count the number of birds on the school grounds.

The results also contribute to the Big Garden Birdwatch, the world’s largest wildlife survey, which helps the RSPB understand the current state of UK wildlife.

Carl Badger and the pupils getting ready for birdwatching following Barratt Homes' donation
Carl Badger and the pupils getting ready for birdwatching following Barratt Homes' donation

Carl Badger, Deputy Headteacher at Old Hill Primary School, said: “We are extremely grateful for this generous donation of birdwatching equipment. The bird seed, boxes and feeders allowed our children to take part in the Big Schools’ Birdwatch as part of a really fun, hands-on outdoor project.

“It’s a great opportunity for pupils to learn more about nature, wildlife and caring for the environment while enjoying being outdoors together.”

Carl Badger, Deputy Head, with the pupils at Old Hill Primary School following the donation
Carl Badger, Deputy Head, with the pupils at Old Hill Primary School following the donation

Barratt Homes commits to supporting wildlife at its developments and celebrating its national partnership with the RSPB to help give nature a home.

Pupils at Old Hill Primary School getting involved in the RSPB Big Schools' Birdwatch
Pupils at Old Hill Primary School getting involved in the RSPB Big Schools' Birdwatch

Joanne Winston, Sales Director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, said: “We have been working closely with the RSPB for close to a decade now and we are always looking for new ways to support its projects all year round.”

“The Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a great way to make students more aware of the natural world and learn how best we can protect and help the wildlife surrounding us. We hope the equipment helps Old Hill Primary School in its birdwatching efforts.”