Exciting new role for Weald nature reserve

A grant from Goldman Sachs will enable Kent Wildlife Trust to realise its ambition to provide a permanent outdoor education facility in a safe, secluded environment for young people in West Kent whilst continuing to expand its current programme of education.

The site will also focus on the development of adult and family learning opportunities together with a programme of events. This is an exciting opportunity to establish this beautiful nature reserve as a centre for outdoor learning excellence.

To support this initiative, the Trust is looking to recruit an Education Coordinator and to create a range of volunteering opportunities at the site.

The Trust’s Head of People Engagement, Stevie Rice, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to establish this beautiful nature reserve as a centre for outdoor learning excellence.

“Studies have shown that Forest School increases children’s knowledge and understanding of the natural world, developing an interest and respect for nature, building confidence and increasing social skills.

There is also evidence that these activities increase concentration and improve communication and problem-solving. Engaging young people with nature at an early age can have positive effects on both physical and mental health.”

Forest Schools is a vital part of a wider strategy by Kent Wildlife Trust to foster a love and appreciation of the environment in the people who will grow up to be its guardians.