For children and young people at all key stages, understanding how and why we manage woodland is a vital aspect of woodland learning. Hands on physical work is particularly great for teenagers and young adults who have lots of energy and just want to get stuck in.

Woodland management skills involve activities such as hedge laying, coppicing, tree planting and ride management. Giving youngsters an opportunity to take part in woodland management supports their feeling of ownership of a local natural space and gives them a sense of responsibility to it; connecting them with the woods on a personal level. Older children are able to take part in activities such as tree planting or coppicing, planting or felling.

 

Involving children in maintenance and use of tools can be a great way to introduce sustainable woodland management to young people as a career choice. Younger children benefit from being involved in woodland management too, using small tools such as loppers or shears and can contribute to general maintenance.

 

For all ages, coppicing can give rise to learning about all kinds of topics, such as the history of woodland management and traditional woodland trades and crafts. Green wood carpentry, traditional pole lathes and basket making are all tasks which will be given deeper meaning when a child cuts down their own materials.

 

Children can also get involved in plant and wildlife surveys and learn about habitat creation. Creating log piles, building bug hotels or bird and bat boxes gives a great opportunity to learn about different species, where they live and what they need to live there.

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These types of sessions tend to be delivered in autumn and winter. To find out more or to book sessions for your school, please fill out the contact form.