Feature
Big Schools’ Birdwatch 2026
Big Schools’ Birdwatch is back for 2026! Join thousands of other schools to find out which birds visit your school grounds. Together, we can make it count.
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English | Cymraeg
In this short film, discover what makes Big Schools’ Birdwatch so special with Assistant Headteacher Sam Clarke and the pupils of Wigmore Primary School in Luton. With specialised resources from the EYFS through to Secondary, Big Schools’ Birdwatch supports every learner.
Big Schools' Birdwatch
1:40Taking part is as easy as 1, 2, 3
1. Download free resources
Download our online resources enabling you and your class to take part in Big Schools’ Birdwatch.
All our resources support curriculum learning, including providing you with historical records of Big Schools’ Birdwatch, so you can compare what you see. All resources are available bilingually for schools in Wales.
2. Get counting
Get counting in your school grounds any time between 6 January and 13 February 2026. Use our differentiated ID resources and survey sheets to record the highest number of each species that you see at the same time.
Why not make your Big Schools’ Birdwatch count towards an RSPB Wild Challenge Award? This free scheme encourages pupils to discover more wildlife and help the nature in your school grounds.
3. Submit your results
Submit your results online. It’s easy to do with your class interactively on the whiteboard. We really want to know what you see, even if you see nothing at all.
You’ll receive certificates to print out for your class. You’ll also get links to more resources including additional historical data, which you can use to compare your sightings with national results from previous years. In addition, you’ll receive follow-up lessons specially produced by Archives IT, in collaboration with the RSPB.
You need to submit your results by 23 February 2026.
Extend your pupils' engagement and learning
The Big Schools’ Birdwatch counts as one activity towards the RSPB’s free Wild Challenge Award. Inspire your pupils to learn through nature by choosing from more than 20 other activities. Tick off another five and you’ll earn your Bronze Award, then work your way up to Gold.