BIOLOGY teacher Martin German is bringing Costa Rica to the classroom at Alcester Grammar School after his experience as a 3M Earthwatch Fellow.

Mr German joined leading Earthwatch conservation scientists last month on a project maintaining the endangered forest in the Santa Rosa National Park.

He had been selected for a national programme for teachers sponsored by 3M, the technology company.

"This was a wonderful opportunity for me to get hands-on experience of the ecology of the dry forests," said Mr German.

"I certainly learned an enormous amount by taking part and the enthusiasm of the scientists was really inspirational.

"Now I'm back, I'm using the knowledge to help bring the subject to life for my biology students, who are studying tropical forests as part of their A-level coursework."

Mr German's sponsorship was arranged through the 3M site at Minworth, which makes badges for car manufacturers worldwide.

Site manager Dave Watson visited the Birmingham Road school to hear more about Mr German's experiences and present him with a new 3M overhead projector for his school and a certificate to mark his fellowship award.

Mr Watson said: "3M has a long history of environmental stewardship and has been running this national award scheme to give teachers invaluable practical experience to take back to the classroom.

"We're delighted Martin and his pupils have benefited so much from it."