Pupils from a Sittingbourne school have enjoyed an immersive outdoor learning session, getting up close with nature in a local park. The event, designed to educate and inspire, was made possible through a collaboration between housebuilder Barratt David Wilson Homes and the Kent Wildlife Trust.
Hands-On Learning in Nature
Children from ALP Sittingbourne rolled up their sleeves at Applegate Park, delving into leaf litter and peering into pond margins. Their mission was to search for and identify the 'mini-beasts' that inhabit these local spaces. The session provided a practical lesson in biodiversity, with pupils learning about creatures from snails and ladybirds to spiders, as well as plant parts, lifecycles, and habitats.
Organisers emphasised the dual benefits of such activities. Getting young people outdoors is proven to boost both mental and physical wellbeing, while simultaneously fostering a connection with nature that helps safeguard wildlife for future generations.
Commitment to Conservation and Community
Anna Peschek, Lead Tutor and Business Support Officer at Kent Wildlife Trust, highlighted the importance of the initiative. "Kent Wildlife Trust is part of the country’s leading conservation charity, driving innovation to fight climate and nature crises," she said. "This makes workshops like this one with local schools crucial."
The event also saw the unveiling of a new bird song panel at Applegate Park. This interactive feature helps residents identify calls from local species, including the Hen Harrier, Merlin, Short-Eared Owl, European Golden Plover, and Eurasian Curlew.
This initiative forms a key part of the housebuilder's wider sustainability programme. Their efforts include creating publicly accessible green spaces, installing hedgehog highways, and providing homes for swifts. In 2024 alone, Barratt David Wilson Homes created over 406 hectares of green space and installed thousands of wildlife-friendly features across its developments.
Valuable Experiences for Young Learners
Lily Garner, a class teacher at ALP Sittingbourne, praised the impact of the workshop on her students. "The mini-beast workshop was a valuable experience for our learners," she said. "They had the opportunity to take part in outdoor learning, whilst opening their minds to nature."
Natalie Perry, Sales and Marketing Director at Barratt David Wilson Kent, reinforced the company's commitment. "We are fully committed to supporting the education of young people in multiple ways, including through nature," she stated.
Meanwhile, Kent Wildlife Trust continues its mission to protect and restore the natural heritage of Kent and Medway. The charity manages more than 90 reserves and works to connect communities to nature through hands-on learning and conservation projects.
