Many thanks to Norwich School for inviting me to deliver a lichen workshop for a group of GCSE-level pupils earlier this week. With a generous full school day at our disposal, we began with an introduction to the secret world of lichens, and then we walked out into Norwich Cathedral Close to observe local lichens, and to collect some samples. After setting up the biology lab for lichen work, and taking a lunch break, we spent the rest of the afternoon analysing our collections.
It was an excellent day. The pupils went from complete lichen novices to budding lichen microscopists in a single workshop. And here’s the proof: a splendidly sectioned apothecium of Lecanora hybocarpa auct. br., mounted and stained in K-ink-vinegar, which one pupil team managed on their first-ever try!
The end of the workshop seemed to come too quickly. But I was very pleased indeed when one pupil told me that he intended to keep looking at lichens as a hobby, and that he’d like recommendations for further reading about them!
It’s always a pleasure to introduce lichens to young people. They’re not unusual in never having really noticed or thought about lichens before. After all, lichens are neglected by almost everyone. But for every young person who finds lichens inspiring, a seed is sown for the future of biodiversity in general, and maybe even for lichens in particular.
