Inspiring the next generation through our Education Programme

At Kent Wildlife Trust, we are working hard to create a Wilder Kent, but this isn’t something we can do alone. That’s why Goal 2 of our Wilder Kent 2030 strategy is to Inspire and Collaborate: working with people and communities across Kent to take meaningful action for nature, now and in the future. Our education work lies at the very heart of this goal. It’s how we inspire the next generation and spark that love of nature that will create the nature protectors of tomorrow.

We can all remember that moment that first ignited our passion for nature. I still remember the first time I saw a red squirrel on a family holiday to the Isle of Wight. It scampered across a branch which was crossing the woodland path my family and I were on and paused right in the middle of the branch and looked at us, allowing us an excellent view of the little guy. He probably only paused for a second, but it felt like an eternity, and that still frame photograph is still etched into my mind 30 years later. This was one of many magical moments from my childhood that ignited my passion for the natural world and led me on my path towards wildlife education.

As Education Manager at Kent Wildlife Trust, I see these magical moments happen on a daily basis when school children visit our education centres. Whether it’s finding their first alien-looking water scorpion in their pond-dipping nets, seeing an impressive stag beetle emerging from a log pile, or witnessing the magnificent Blean bison silently appearing through the trees, these moments spark joy and wonder.

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. They ask questions, they explore, they investigate, and in doing so, form powerful early connections with the natural world. These early experiences often shape how they will see the natural world for the rest of their lives. By teaching them of the importance and fragility of nature at an early age, we aim to create a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship. The meaningful outdoor learning experiences we offer at Kent Wildlife Trust empower young people with knowledge, equip them with skills and, most importantly, inspire them to care.

Every school visit to one of our reserves, every Nature Tots programme, every Wilder Birthday Party and Holiday Club session, every moment spent pond dipping or bug hunting, every Forest School workshop helps build a sense of wonder and responsibility for the world around them. These aren’t just fun extra-curricular activities; they’re the first steps toward raising a generation of nature-literate citizens who will grow up to be the conservationists, campaigners and changemakers of tomorrow.

Our Reconnect and Protect Nature’s Voice appeal is about expanding this vital work. With your support, we can continue to grow our provision, reach more young people, offer more immersive experiences in wild spaces and build stronger partnerships with educators and communities across Kent. We can inspire thousands to speak up for nature, now and tomorrow.

This work is vital! As wild spaces shrink and nature becomes less visible in daily life, young people are growing up increasingly disconnected from it. If we don’t act now, we risk losing not just species and habitats, but the very voices who will defend them in the future.

By supporting this appeal, you’re helping us deliver Goal 2 of Wilder Kent 2030. You’re helping to inspire, to educate, and to collaborate so that together, we can create a Wilder Kent for all.

Share

Help us to inspire the next generation and give nature a voice.