Blackbirds, house sparrows and robins top the checklist for tens of thousands of school children across the UK this week as the world’s biggest schools’ wildlife survey kicks off.

The RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch – which takes place during the first half of the spring term – is a chance for children to get outside to experience and learn about the nature that lives on their doorstep. 

The Birdwatch involves children spending an hour watching and counting the birds that visit their outdoor space, before sending the results to the RSPB.

A recent survey of 200 teachers and 1,200 school children from around the UK revealed that 96% teachers believed it was important for children to experience nature at school, while 77% of pupils agreed.

Last year, 73,000 children and teachers took part counting more than 100,000 birds. 

For the ninth successive year the blackbird was the most common playground visitor with 88% of schools spotting one. 

Robins, blue tits, house sparrows and wood pigeons all featured prominently in the results, with more than 70 difference species recorded.

The Big Schools Birdwatch is a free activity.