Fishkeeper Fry week one is now complete for the majority of the participating schools. But what have they been up to in week one?

Figure 1: Otterburn Primary School students setting up their tank

This week schools have been tasked with setting up their new fish tanks. The pupils were asked to watch a video that was created to explain all the important information the teachers and students need to set up their tanks. For example, why you shouldn’t tap on or shout near the glass. The class was asked to use a tap water conditioner to safely add water to their aquarium along with setting up the filter and heater.

Figure 2: Blackdown Primary School newly set up tank.

Each week the students of all the participating schools are sent weekly worksheets to complete. These sheets ask questions about their fish and how to safely keep them as well as involve fun activities like word searches, colouring in sheets and story writing.

Figure  3: Completed word search from a student at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School

On top of the video lesson and the worksheets, teachers are also tasked with choosing a Fishkeeper of the Week. This could be the pupil who has been the most helpful etc. Maidenhead Aquatics then chooses an overall fishkeeper of the Week each week which is announced on our social media platforms. We also do an overall Tank of the Week and Worksheet of the Week, which is also announced on our social media.

Figure 4: Nether Robertland Primary School ‘Fishkeeper of the Week’

At the end of the 8-week programme, we award School of the Year to the school that has engaged the best with the programme. The winning school will receive a trophy and medals for the whole class. Look out for this year's winner!

Figure 5:  Westcott Primary School setting up their tank.