The Devon Wildlife Trusts 30 days Wild nature photography competition saw over 70 stunning submissions by both staff and students at Ivybridge Community college.

To celebrate the Wildlife Trusts 30-days Wild initiative Students, and staff at the school were encouraged to do something wild every day throughout June, and in recognition of Nature Photography Day, on June 15, the college ran a nature photography competition for students and staff.

Images were entered into five categories: Textures and Patterns, Animals, Water, Plants and Small is Beauty.

Thom Guy, Teacher of Physics and ICT, who organised the competition as part of his work with the College’s Sustainability Group, said: “I hoped that the competition would encourage students to spend some time outside exploring the wonderful countryside that we have nearby.

“I was very happy with the response from students in all Year Groups, and staff from several departments.

“Every student who took part can be proud of their entries and I hope that they enjoyed spending their time outside.

“It is increasingly recognised that spending time outdoors can reduce stress and improve wellbeing as well as being crucial to fostering a connection with, and appreciation of, the natural world.

“This is especially important in the face of biodiversity collapse and global climate change.”

The Colleges Art department loaned their expertise to help judge the competition.

Sara Elston, Head of Creative Arts said: “There are some fabulous shots, I was particularly impressed by the cow and horse compositions, and the brilliant time lapse in the waterfalls”.

Lucy Gunning, Teacher of Art, added: “I loved so many of these images and it was difficult to choose a winner.”