In June and July 2026, our Engagement Team, working with our Estates Team, ran 3 weeks of work experience for Year 10 students from local secondary schools. For many of these students, they already have an interest in nature, but these weeks give them a tangible taste of what it might actually look like to pursue a career in conservation.

The first week was at Green Lane Woods, Trowbridge, where the 10 young people had a project to complete: turn a bare patch of land near a pond into a visitor experience area. In the space of 5 days, they built a small access bridge for staff, constructed 3 benches, created a bird viewing screen, and wove 3 willow panels and a willow panel door. An incredible effort by all and transformational for the space, making it more accessible for people to enjoy nature.

The second and third week at Langford Lakes and Lower Moor Farm were focussed on giving the students 'A Week in the Life of an Estates Officer.' Both groups spent time carrying out scrub and path maintenance, monitoring insects and reptiles, building bird boxes, repairing screens, and were even introduced to the excitement of bird ringing! At Langford Lakes learnt how to carry out Riverfly Monitoring, and spent time in the River Wylye seeing what invertebrates they could identify.

Allowing school pupils a week in nature involved in wildlife conservation, and sharing the passion and interest of staff and volunteers with them, creates a lasting legacy. These young people may go on to work in conservation, find new hobbies outside, or share their new interests and knowledge with family and friends. The final word goes to our students, implying that this is indeed what will happen.