Many children in South Africa have never visited a game reserve or National Park before. This is despite lots of them living in close proximity to these incredible places, all over the country. Although tourists come from all over the world to see wildlife such as lions, elephants and rhinos, many South Africans will never get that chance.

Up until now, it has been no different for the pupils at Glen Park Primary School, who live alongside Bonamanzi Game Reserve - a wildlife reserve that is home to 4 of the big 5 and an array of other stunning wildlife.

But how can we expect people to protect what they do not know?

Connected Planet Foundation, Dogs4Wildlife and IFPCP are working together to launch a brand new conservation club for the pupils at Glen Park Primary school. The club will involve trips into Bonamanzi,which will be the first time the children have ever visited their local reserve and the first time they have seen animals such as rhinos and elephants.

The club will also involve weekly conservation lessons, run by local guide Wanda, which will teach the children a range of topics from what makes an ecosystem, through to wildlife crime, and what is needed to be a wildlife ranger.

This brilliant initiative aims to build a connection between the local community and Bonamanzi Reserve, whilst helping to create the next generation of conservationists, rangers or biologists.

The closer we feel to nature, the more likely we are to protect it.

Please donate today to help us fund and grow this programme and to help make a difference to the long-term conservation of Africa's wildlife.