Surf the web and help environment (From Gazette Series)

Surf the web and help environment

RESIDENTS are being offered the chance to combine learning new computer skills with helping wildlife.

Stroud Valleys Project has teamed up with Rednock School in Dursley to help people get to grips with new technology as part of the school's commitment to science.

As part of its specialist science school status, Rednock aims to increase opportunities for the public to take part in activities involving science, mathematics and information technology.

For several years Stroud Valleys Project has been working with Cam and Dursley residents to help them learn more about the ecology and the natural environment.

Stroud Valley's People and Ecology Project has been encouraging residents to survey local wildlife to discover more about out what wildlife is living there to help plan conservation projects for the future.

The project approached the school in an effort to pool resources and help people learn more about their environment.

As part of the initiative free website design training is being offered by teachers at Rednock.

The training will include the development of a website for Cam and Dursley wildlife groups. The newly developed site will allow anyone interested to learn more about wildlife in the Dursley district.

The website would also contain news about environmental issues so that it can be a first step for anyone who wants to find out what they can do to help to make their surroundings healthier.

Director of projects for Stroud Valleys Project Caroline Aistrop said this is a wonderful opportunity for the group.

She added: "Our work is about giving people the skills to find out about their local environment, develop ideas for how to make a healthier environment for everyone to live in, and then put those ideas into practise.

"For many people, the first point of contact for information is the internet and so being part of this project will enable people to develop that first point of contact."

Headteacher John Pritchard said he is delighted the school's science college is giving the school the opportunity to assist local science groups.

"We welcome those for whom information technology is a complete stranger or those with a little knowledge," he added. "To create a basic web site takes little more than to be able to type with two fingers."

More details about the training - including the length and start date are to be finalised in consultation with people who show an interest in joining the scheme.

Anyone who is interested in taking up the offer of free web-site training is asked to contact Caroline Aistrop on 01453-753358, by emailing info@stroudvalleysproject.org or write to Kendrick Hall, Kendrick Street, Stroud, GL5 3SB.