SCHOOLCHILDREN across Ribble Valley are being urged to spend their time gazing out of the classroom window - with the blessing of their teacher.

The aim is to encourage them to watch the birds that share their school grounds, to learn a little more about identifying and looking after them - and to take part in the schools' version of the long-running RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.

RSPB education officer Jim Wardill said: "The schools we are visiting are very keen on Big Schools' Birdwatch and we hope that many more will be encouraged to take part during the fortnight of January 19 to 30.

"Teachers can choose to keep it very simple, as a one-off activity, or to combine it with work to improve their school grounds or even as a cross-curricular project using birds as the theme." Brennands Endowed Primary School, Slaidburn, and Brabins Endowed Primary School, Chipping are among the schools joining in with the scheme but more schools are being invited to enrol in the activity.

A special Big Schools' Birdwatch hotline number has been set up and teachers can get hold of a free information pack by ringing 0870 608 6301. The activity is most suitable for key stages 1 and 2. Details can also be found by visiting the RSPB website on www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

For more information about Big Schools' Birdwatch - or Big Garden Birdwatch - visit the RSPB website www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch or ring 0870 608 6301 (national call rate) for your FREE Big Schools' Birdwatch pack.