Primary schools can win My Living World kits and a visit from naturalist and TV presenter Nick Baker in the competition, held in association with KiddyCharts.

Naturalist and TV presenter Nick Baker – the expert behind the My Living World range from PlayMonster UK.

PlayMonster UK is launching a Design A Bug competition this week, inviting pupils from the UK’s 20,000 primary schools to create their own weird and wonderful insects and bugs.

The company will provide 250 winning schools with My Living World Ant World and World Worm kits plus free STEM learning packs, created in association with parenting and learning website KiddyCharts, with one school will also winning a visit from naturalist and popular TV presenter Nick Baker, the expert behind the My Living World range. The competition asks pupils to bring their imaginary insects to life using drawing, painting, 3D art or a computer design, inspired by creatures they’ve seen in the school playground or local park.

PlayMonster UK has launched the campaign through the Teach Primary educational publication and will give further support through PR, educators, influencers and an integrated digital marketing campaign for the competition and My Living World range. KiddyCharts will also be headlining the competition and My Living World STEM resource pack on its award-winning website, reaching 43,000 visitors and 15,000 newsletter subscribers.

The winning school will receive a special visit from Nick Baker, who will lead an exciting assembly for pupils. The well-known presenter has hosted some of the UK’s best-loved wildlife programmes including BBC’s The Really Wild Show and Springwatch Unsprung. Prizes also include exciting bundles of My Living World products for runner-up pupils and schools, including the new bug photography kit, pocket microscope, flower press, window bird feeder and much more.

Nick Baker said: “I’m very excited to judge the Design A Bug Competition. Learning about bugs and nature is a great way to bring science to life for kids. I can’t wait to see their amazing designs and to visit the winning school to see their STEM learning in action with My Living World and Kiddycharts.”

Justin Clasby, senior marketing manager, PlayMonster UK said: “I am looking forward to seeing the children’s brilliant bug designs and colourful creations. The brand offers children, schools and families their first kits to engage and observe nature at home or in outdoor spaces. For 2021, we have introduced an updated style guide to broaden the brand’s appeal and expect more success throughout the year.”

The Design A Bug competition is open to pupils in all UK primary schools, and children have until 18th June to enter. For more details visit  www.playmonster.co.uk/pages/design-a-bug-competition