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Teaching resources for The Last Song of the Mistle Thrush by Ruth Mary Flanagan

The Last Song of the Mistle Thrush by Ruth Mary Flanagan is a poignant and beautifully illustrated poem that bridges the worlds of literature, history, science, and environmental awareness. This cross-curricular teaching resource has been designed to help primary teachers bring the story’s themes to life across the breadth of the curriculum, including English, history, maths, science, geography, RE, art, drama, design technology and music.

Set against the backdrop of Victorian England and the sweeping changes of the Industrial Revolution, the poem invites children to explore the stark contrasts between the natural world before industrialisation and the environmental challenges we face today. Through imaginative and engaging activities – including diary writing, historical role-play, seasonal science, bird migration mapping, and creative arts – pupils are encouraged to reflect on our shared responsibility to care for the planet and its creatures.

With over 60 adaptable ideas, this resource supports learning at all primary stages and fosters critical thinking, empathy, and creative expression. Perhaps you’re building a unit on Victorian life, biodiversity, climate change, or poetry, The Last Song of the Mistle Thrush offers a rich and flexible foundation for meaningful, interdisciplinary learning.

Let the mistle thrush's final song inspire your pupils to become thoughtful stewards of the natural world.