Saint Gobain geologist from Bantycock Quarry Newark makes rocks come alive for pupils of Chuter Ede

The company that operates Bantycock Gypsum Quarry near Newark, has taken learning about rocks to another level for school pupils.

Thanks to an educational and interactive visit from Saint-Gobain geologist David Griffiths, Year 5 pupils at Chuter Ede School have been able to learn more about different types of rocks, how and when they were formed, and how they are now extracted and used in important everyday products. And to focus the children’s minds on how long ago certain rock types were formed, they even got to make their own ‘rock’ dinosaur, using Saint-Gobain’s gypsum.

Commenting on these very popular lessons, teacher Becky Pennick said: “The study of rocks can be quite a tricky topic to make exciting. David really helped the children relate to the types of rocks in their locality by explaining how they are used in everyday life. They loved hearing about the history of rock formation and how they are now extracted underground in mines or above ground in quarries like at Bantycock.

“We are also trying to educate our pupils about different future career options. As a bonus, they also got to learn about being a geologist and gain an understanding that not all scientists where white coats and work in a laboratory!

“Using the gypsum-based plaster to make their own dinosaurs was the icing on the cake for these memorable lessons for our Year 5s.”

David Griffiths added: “It was a real pleasure to take these children on a learning journey through the world of geology.

“I wanted them to not only hear how different types were formed, but to also understand how rocks are processed and used in a range of essential everyday activities such as bread-making and dentistry.

“They loved their lesson and definitely enjoyed making their own ‘rock’ dinosaur.”