The company said that the aims are to show youngsters that quarries are not a playground as well as tying into lessons about rocks and soils, the environment, and industry and nature. The visits also provide an opportunity to build positive relationships within the community. Older students, scientists and foreign exchange visitors will also see the site, operated by Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK, but primary age children will make up the majority of the audience. Another five schools are scheduled to tour in the next month with more in the pipeline.
Lafarge quarry guide Kim Shaw said, “Between May and July we are really busy with school visits and other tours. Health and safety is our primary concern and we ensure all the adults wear appropriate protective clothing and the children wear reflective vests, hard-hats and goggles.
“We tell the children why these precautions are taken and during the tour we explain that quarries are not playgrounds and can be dangerous places if you are not trained to work there.
“In particular we point out the hazards involved with quarry lakes which appear so enticing but can be deadly places to swim in because they are so deep, cold and steep-sided.”
