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The charity making life better by water

Could you teach kids about canals?

We're looking for volunteers to help teach school children in Wiltshire and Berkshire about the wonders of the local waterways.

We're hoping to recruit the volunteers as part of a new educational project based at the historic Crofton Pumping Station, near Marlborough, which sits on the banks of the Kennet & Avon Canal.

The volunteers will develop a curriculum to help children understand the importance of the Pumping Station, its beam engine, the lives of the people who used to work there and the rich heritage and wildlife of this stretch of the Canal.

Crofton Pumping Station has supplied the Kennet & Avon canal with water for over 200 years, using two steam pumps to lift water 40 feet to the canal. The Crofton Beam Engines at Crofton Locks Summit, built in 1812 and 1845, are among the world's oldest working steam beam engines. The Pumping Station is run and maintained by the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust.

Open session

Those interested in getting involved are encouraged to attend an open session at the site (SN8 3DW) on Tuesday 1 October, between 2- 4pm.

Elaine Stanley, education volunteer coordinator at the Canal & River Trust says: “The Pumping Station is the perfect setting to inspire young people about their local canal, and all the stories, history and wildlife that it contains. We are looking for volunteer teachers who can help to bring the Kennet & Avon Canal alive, to what we hope is a new generation of waterway enthusiasts. I'd encourage anyone interested in getting involved to attend the open event.”

This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a newly established creative team and work in a stunning location. Experience of working with children, at primary or secondary level, is necessary. All volunteers will have the support of an education officer and all travel costs will be reimbursed.

To get involved or for more information contact Elaine Stanley on [email protected]

Last Edited: 20 September 2013

photo of a location on the canals
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