Time is running out for schools, nurseries and youth groups to sign up for The Great Tail Trail.
Set to become the biggest and most colourful event to take place in Bournemouth, Chrustchurch and Poole next year, it will feature giant mermaid tail sculptures decorated with striking designs in popular locations across the area.
The trail opens to the public for eight weeks from 5 April 2025 and will raise vital funds for Julia’s House children’s hospice.
By signing up to the trail’s learning programme, schools and groups will receive their very own Tiny Tail sculpture to design and paint.
Laura Maidment, Public Fundraising Manager for Julia’s House, said: “The deadline to sign up – October 11 – is fast approaching and there are only a limited number of sculptures available, so we really recommend you register as quickly as possible to secure your very own Tiny Tail.
“Being part of this programme enables young people to work together on a creative project for the wider community and will encourage discussions on important topics linked to the curriculum – from discovering the history of your local area, to inclusion and differences, and the benefits of physical activity and exploring nature.
“There are so many great reasons to sign up – and lots of fun to be had!”
UK life and pensions mutual insurer LV=, and long term supporter of Julia’s House, has come on board as the sponsor of The Great Tail Trail learning programme.
By signing up to the trail’s learning programme, schools and groups will receive their very own Tiny Tail sculpture to design and paint.
Once decorated, the colourful Tiny Tails will feature on the free art trail alongside 45 giant mermaid tail sculptures which will be painted by professional artists and sponsored by local businesses.
The sculptures will be displayed together for one last time at a farewell event at the Bournemouth International Centre from 14-15 June 2025, before the Tiny Tails swim home to their schools or groups to be treasured for years to come.
Participating schools and groups will also be supported with guidance and resources to design their sculpture, engage their young learners in the project and help them fundraise a target amount of £750 for Julia’s House, to help the charity continue its life-changing care for seriously ill children.