Canterbury/Blean Practical Team Volunteer

Join the Blean volunteer team and get stuck in with helping to look after the iconic Blean Woods.

Location: Canterbury
  • Commitment: Tuesday, Friday

  • Frequency: Weekly

  • Location: East lean Wood NNR or West Blean and Thornden Woods

Please note: Tuesday and Friday are task days from 9.00AM - 3.00 PM. You are welcome to attend as often as you like

Why do we need you?

It takes a lot of effort to keep Blean Woods great for wildlife, and we have ambitions for it to be even better. Your help would be vital to ensuring the future of Blean woods. 

What will I be doing?

  • Coppicing
  • Path maintenance
  • Fencing
  • Ride cutting
  • Whatever needs to be done! 

What experience is needed?

  • No previous experience required - although we are also looking for people who have a valid chainsaw licence
  • You should be happy to work outdoors in all weathers 
  • Willing to work as part of a team 

Benefits to volunteering and training opportunities 

  • Training in woodland management techniques.  
  • Potential for qualifications such as chainsaw felling and brushcutters 
  • Exercise 
  • Sociability 
  • Access to free firewood 

Full training is given and you’ll only be asked to do work you are comfortable with. There is also the potential to undertake further training such as leading groups safely and First Aid.

Benefits from becoming a volunteer with Kent Wildlife Trust include discounts to Wildlife Study days, a bi-monthly Wilder Volunteering Newsletter and recognition program. 

Where is the role based?

Blean Woods does a semi-ring around Canterbury. KWT manage areas all the way from Selling to Herne Common. We move around the various areas throughout the year. 

East Blean, Thornden Wood, Bigbury Camp and South Blean. 

Other things to consider

This role is currently only open to those over the age of 18

Ideally you need the ability to get to the reserve, of which most are accessible by car. (Reasonable mileage expenses can be claimed.)