About

Dr. Andy Chandler-Grevatt

Hello. Thanks for dropping by.

I’m Andy. I created Moss Safari based on my hobby of exploring moss. I want to open the microscopic world to children and adults alike. Aim to inspire a generation of biologists to explore and understand this hidden world.

I have a Bachelors degree and Masters degree in Biological Sciences and a Doctorate in science education. I have over twenty-five years experience of working in education including a decade of teaching secondary science, working on transition projects between primary and secondary schools, authoring and editing science text books and resources, national and international consultancy and leading small scale education projects.

Moss Safari is my passion. I want to pass on that passion. Let’s go on a Moss Safari.

What is Moss Safari?

Squeeze a drop of water from some wet moss and observe it under a microscope. You will see a whole new world of incredible single celled and multi-celled organisms. Initially awe-inspiring and fascinating, it can feel overwhelming to make sense of the diversity of life you see. That’s where Moss Safari provides, support, education and inspiration for all.

Moss Safari was invented by Dr. Andy Chandler-Grevatt as a way to make this amazing microcosm accessible to young and old. At it’s simplest, Moss Safari is a microscopic adventure that allows ‘explorers’ to look for the incredible ‘Big Five’ multicellular organisms. Each has it’s own fascinating story about how it survives in moss, how it is connected to the ecosystem and it’s relevance to human existence.

The simplest thing to do with a microscope. Whether you are primary teacher, secondary science teacher, school or college technician, home-schooler or hobbyist, Moss Safari provides an accessible gateway into the microscopic world. With free resources to do your own Moss Safari, live events to take explorers on a Moss Safari and collaborations with organisations to promote the aims of Moss Safari, Moss Safari provides a great introduction to the biology of moss, microorganisms and science.

Aims of Moss Safari

Engagement with Nature: Encourage individuals to engage with nature by fostering an appreciation for moss and its intricate ecosystems found in everyday environments. By observing moss and its inhabitants through a microscope, participants can develop a deeper connection with the natural world right at their doorstep.
Promoting Microscopy: Encourage the use of microscopes, particularly among young people, as well as adults interested in hobbies or citizen science. By highlighting the accessibility and versatility of microscopes, Moss Safari aims to inspire individuals to explore the microscopic world and conduct their own observations at home, school, or work.
Increasing Participation in Scientific Study: Promote participation in natural history and scientific inquiry, emphasising that science is inclusive and open to all. Moss Safari demonstrates that there are abundant opportunities for individuals to contribute to scientific knowledge and become experts in their own right, whether on a local, national, or global scale. By engaging in moss-related research and observation, participants can actively contribute to ongoing scientific efforts and broaden their understanding of the natural world.