Sussex Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) Education Department is celebrating teaching 20,507 children and young people in 2008.

Last year there was a growth in the range of activities and different sites where SWT offers environmental education to children.

Woods Mill near Henfield is the Trust’s Headquarters, known to generations of schoolchildren and teachers as an inspiring place to experience the wonders of nature, and to cover vital elements of the curriculum.

The Trust also offers a range of educational programmes (on behalf of the South Downs Joint Committee) at the Seven Sisters Country Park near Seaford – teaching children from nursery school age through to University students. In 2008 another successful partnership was formed with Ashdown Forest Conservators and the High Weald Unit; SWT now supplies teachers and programmes for schools visiting the Ashdown Forest.

SWT’s Outreach programme continues to take environmental education direct into schools and works on wildlife-friendly school grounds, outdoor learning, and teacher training.

Continuing its popularity for students of all ages and abilities is the Trust’s Forest School programme. This unique educational experience aims to build confidence, self-esteem and independence through hands-on bushcraft and conservation tasks.

Education Manager Nigel Flynn says “It’s great to see the number of children being introduced to nature by the enthusiastic and dedicated teachers, staff and volunteers. As well as important curriculum lessons, we are able to show schools and children how they can help wildlife to survive and thrive in the future.”

For more information on SWT education activities go to www.sussexwt.org.uk/education/index.htm or ring 01273 497561.

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