Artistry for Conservation
27th June 2026
During Art Week, our Year 5 children immersed themselves in a creative and educational journey focussed on the critically endangered mountain bongo. To deepen their understanding of this magnificent species, which currently has fewer than 100 individuals remaining in the wild, the children embarked on an inspiring trip to the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy.
At the conservancy, the children observed vital breeding programmes firsthand and learned how young bongos are cared for in the orphanage before transitioning to forested bomas. In these bomas, the animals safely develop essential survival instincts for eventual rewilding. The children also discovered the severe threats facing these beautiful browsers, such as habitat loss, illegal trade, and disease, while recognizing their crucial role in conserving the forest ecosystem.
This experiential learning links directly to our Art and Science curriculum and embodies the Braeburn Circles by fostering environmental responsibility and active citizenship. Inspired by their discoveries, the children returned to the classroom to channel their knowledge into powerful visual advocacy.
They designed stunning mixed-media art pieces, skilfully combining fabric, paint, and vibrant colours to convey a clear, impactful message about protecting this vulnerable species. Through their imaginative artwork, the children beautifully demonstrated how creativity can be used to spread awareness and inspire real-world conservation.
