(Author John Gatherer with a fascinated young
learner at the handover function. Pic by Pierre Tostee )
Learners from St Christophers Primary School in Kwadukuza, KwaZulu-Natal
were recently treated to a special visit from local author, John Gatherer, of the popular children’s wildlife book, Young and Wild, who visited the MRP
Foundation school to share his passion for conservation.
The successful businessman, photographer, wildlife enthusiast and
explorer was inspired to create Young and
Wild after he realised there were very few wildlife books for children to
enjoy. The result was a fun and informative publication packed with vivid
photos, children’s illustrations and interesting information.
Gatherer graciously donated copies to each of the five MRP Foundation
schools in KwaDukuza - Aldinville Senior Primary School, Kearsney Primary
School, Nyakana Combined Primary School, Zilungisele Primary School and St
Christophers Primary School - and his book has captivated the learners’
imaginations ever since.
Four budding
students and various educators spent a morning with the author, eloquently
reading out their favourite parts of the book and quizzing Gatherer on his
motivation for creating Young and Wild.
Gatherer was more than happy to share the bigger purpose saying: “This
book is about trying to get the issues of wildlife and conservation better
understood by young people to hopefully grow their interest around some of our
natural treasures. Wildlife is just another part of education and at the end of
the day I hope my book will stimulate the learning process and prepare young
people for life after school.”
And that’s one of the core purposes of the MRP Foundation Schools Programme, to equip learners to succeed after school
and in life. The holistic education model which takes place in five schools
includes creative arts and culture lessons, environmental awareness,
technology-based learning and dedicated physical education classes that all
assist in creating an inspired learning environment to develop a well-rounded
and empowered learner.
The school principal, educators and learners all thanked Gatherer for
sharing his love for South Africa’s natural heritage with the book adding
another exciting layer to the learners' education journey.
For more
information visit http://www.mrpfoundation.org/News/articles/Sparking-a-passion-for-wildlife.aspx
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