Fishkeeper Fry 2026 Week 2

Week 2 is now complete for all schools. This week, the schools have been showing what they have been up to.

Figure 1: Tank of the week - Felton C of E Primary School

Each week, Paul Tapley (better known as Tappers) guides pupils through the next stage of their fish-keeping journey. In his videos, Tappers demonstrates each task step by step, explaining the reasoning behind his methods. For eight weeks, he teaches pupils about beneficial and harmful bacteria, the importance of regular water changes, and other essential aspects of maintaining a healthy aquarium.

Figure 2: Gade Valley Primary School students testing their aquarium water sample

This week, Tappers has been teaching pupils how to test the water in their tanks and how to add plants to their aquariums, preparing them for the arrival of livestock in week three.

Figure 3: Marlborough Primary School student adding plants to their aquarium

Pupils have been learning about the factors that determine whether water is suitable or unsuitable for fish. They have also been introduced to the concepts of acidity and alkalinity, gaining an understanding of how these affect water quality. Using test strips, they have been measuring pH levels and learning how to interpret the results to maintain a healthy environment for their fish.

Figure 4: Beechwood Primary School student testing their water

This week, Tappers also introduced pupils to the Nitrogen Cycle, a fundamental aspect of maintaining a healthy aquarium. As the key to keeping fish happy and thriving, understanding this process is essential. Pupils learned how the Nitrogen Cycle works and the crucial role that beneficial bacteria play in aquarium filters, helping to break down waste and maintain water quality.

Figure 5: St. Michael's C of E Primary School students' nitrogen cycle worksheets

Schools have been working on a cut-and-stick activity we provided to help pupils better understand the Nitrogen Cycle. This hands-on task reinforces how the process works and the important role bacteria play in maintaining a healthy aquarium environment.

Figure 6: Felton C of E Primary School Cut and Stick activity 

At the end of each video, Tappers poses a few key questions about the topic covered, encouraging pupils to reflect on their learning. Pupils then record their answers on a worksheet we provide. This week, they also completed a ‘fill in the gaps’ task to reinforce their understanding of the concepts introduced.

Figure 7: Beechwood Primary School completed the quiz activity

In week 2, stores provided schools with plants for their aquariums, and pupils have been busy carefully placing them to create a well-organized and natural environment for their fish.

Figure 8: Leverton Church of England Academy aquarium

Once again, the title of ‘Fishkeeper of the Week’ is awarded to the pupil who has demonstrated the best effort and workmanship. The winner is given a special sticker to wear throughout the following week as a recognition of their achievement.

We will be posting our ‘Fishkeeper of the Week’ on the Fishkeeper Fry social platforms this week, so keep an eye out.

We love seeing the extra efforts that schools put into their fish-keeping projects alongside the tasks we send. Some schools have created impressive displays, while pupils at others have produced fantastic artwork. We've also seen informative leaflets being made, and one school even took a trip to their local store to gain hands-on experience and learn more about fishkeeping. It's great to see such enthusiasm and creativity!

Figure 9: St. Michael's C of E Primary School 3D aquariums

Figure 10: Priors Wood Primary School 2D aquariums

As we head into week 3, schools will be introducing their first fish into the aquariums. Keep an eye on the Fishkeeper Fry social media to find out which species they will be receiving and to see what the schools get up to, or check out next week’s article for all the details.