College students from Leicester city centre took their learning outdoors during an engaging ecology field trip in the Geopark, that combined practical skills, conservation, and green careers awareness.
The students from Indie Education were from Years 11 to 13, and study a variety of subjects. The visit gave students the opportunity to investigate the biodiversity of Charnwood Forest, using quadrats to sample grassland and understand how scientists monitor habitats and measure environmental change. A bug hunt encouraged the students to look more closely at the wildlife and habitats around them, helping to bring key ecological concepts to life.
The day also included a hands-on conservation session, where students removed tree guards from a young native woodland on the National Forest estate. This practical activity gave them an insight into the work involved in managing natural environments and protecting habitats, while allowing them to make a positive contribution to the local landscape. Students also discovered how volunteering can help develop valuable green skills, from teamwork to practical conservation techniques. The session introduced them to the wide range of careers linked to the environment, including ecology, conservation, and land management.
The field trip provided a valuable link between classroom learning and the real world, helping students develop practical experience while gaining greater understanding of the importance of protecting our natural environment.