Children from Tilery Primary School have transformed into nature heroes as they took part in a unique wildlife parade at Tilery Park, Teesside. This creative event was more than just a school activity—it was part of a larger effort to boost nature recovery and build stronger community connections with green spaces.
Led by the Tees Nature Recovery Partnership (NRP), this inspiring project is focused on understanding how local people, especially children, use and view nearby parks like Tilery Rec—and how they would like to see them in the future.
Creative Learning Meets Environmental Awareness
Children from Years 5 and 6 worked alongside Teesside University and local artists to explore the history and future of Tilery Rec. They:
- Designed animal costumes based on wildlife from the park
- Imagined what the park could look like 100 years from now
- Used photography, textiles, and sculpture-making to express their ideas
- Created artworks and displays inspired by nature and their surroundings
This hands-on learning was also a part of their geography curriculum, giving them a chance to learn about the environment while being out in the community.
The wildlife parade gave them the perfect stage to showcase their hard work and passion for nature. Photos from the event will be shared with Natural England, recognising the children’s efforts on a bigger platform.
Community Involvement and Artistic Collaboration
The project was captured on film by Sarah Perks and Dr Paul Stewart from Teesside University’s Institute for Collective Place Leadership. Artists like Annie O’Donnell, Wil Jackson, Christo Wallers, and Lizzie Mckeone also joined in to support and inspire the children.
Local community groups got involved too—sharing stories, making sculptures, and even playing bingo! It truly became a neighbourhood celebration of both creativity and conservation.
A Greener, More Connected Future
Vicky Ward, Senior Project Manager for Natural England, praised the children’s efforts:
“It is fantastic to see young people’s creativity, passion and enthusiasm in helping to protect our natural habitats here in Teesside.”
She also highlighted the importance of green and blue spaces in addressing key issues like health, wellbeing, social inequality, and climate change.
The Tees Nature Recovery Partnership (NRP), launched in January 2023, covers a vast 17,200-hectare area. It brings together various organisations like the Environment Agency, RSPB Saltholme, and Tees Valley Wildlife Trust to restore nature and improve people’s access to local green spaces.
A Lasting Impact on Young Minds
Tilery Primary School said the children were excited and proud to take part. Their involvement helped them:
- Understand their community’s history
- Connect with nature on a deeper level
- Learn how green spaces are used and valued
- Express their hopes for a greener future
Professor Sarah Perks from Teesside University shared her thoughts:
“We are dedicated to engaging communities with local nature and connecting with living ecosystems.”
Dr Paul Stewart added:
“We felt inspired by the multiple ways the schoolchildren involved in the project worked collaboratively.”
The wildlife parade and creative workshops around Tilery Park are a powerful reminder of how art, education, and community can come together to support nature recovery. With young minds leading the way, the future of Teesside’s green spaces looks bright, hopeful, and filled with life.
If more communities can follow this example, we’ll be one step closer to a cleaner, greener, and more connected future for all.
FAQ’s
What was the Tilery Park wildlife parade about?
The parade was part of a creative nature recovery project involving local schoolchildren who dressed as animals to raise awareness about protecting green spaces.
Who organised the Tilery Park project?
The project was led by the Tees Nature Recovery Partnership in collaboration with Teesside University, local artists, and Natural England.
What did the children learn during the project?
They explored the history of Tilery Rec, created art based on nature, learned about habitat protection, and expressed their vision for green spaces 100 years from now.
Which organisations are part of the Tees Nature Recovery Partnership?
Partners include Natural England, Environment Agency, RSPB Saltholme, Tees Valley Wildlife Trust, Stockton and Redcar Councils, and others.
How does this project benefit the community?
It helps improve access to nature, boosts local involvement, supports education, and promotes long-term environmental recovery across Teesside.
