We’re very excited to announce that, with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we are launching a new Nature Programme to make nature more accessible and inclusive to the local community. Over the next two years, we’ll be introducing programs for local schools and communities, mental wellbeing initiatives, an electric shuttle service, self-guided walks, and a conservation traineeship.
We’re looking forward to increasing access to Elmley’s abundant wildlife and beautiful landscape, built on over 40 years of dedicated nature restoration. Rooted in Sheppey, we’re proud to support the local community.
Minster In Sheppey Primary School Visit
- We were delighted to welcome Year 5 from Minster Primary School to Elmley recently. From bird-spotting and exploring the shoreline on Cockleshell Beach and dissecting owl pellets, to wading bird sketching and clay sculpting, and weaving grass hearts, the pupils immersed themselves in nature and explored the unique landscape of Elmley’s marshes, estuary and meadows. These sessions are designed to support local school curriculums and encourage confidence, curiosity and care for the natural world, all while having lots of fun outdoors! We’ve already welcomed over 300 local children in the first year of our Nature Programme, and can’t wait to welcome even more.
St Edwards School Visit
- We recently welcomed year 4 children from St Edwards Primary School. They got to experience the Reserve in 3 groups, taking it in turns to learn about the different birds and particularly wading birds on the estuary, exploring Cockleshell beach discovering crabs, different seaweeds and shells, thinking about what the birds feed on and how saltmarsh plants and mudflats help with climate change. They did some beach litter picking and learnt why litter is bad for the bird's habitats, also finding sticks and driftwood to use in lighting the fire for the storm kettles to boil water and make hot chocolate to keep them all warm!
- We recently welcomed children from Queenborough school who enjoyed taking part in activities including bug hunting and pond dipping. As part of our new Nature Programme, moving forward, we will be covering subjects related to climate change, care of wildlife and nature, the history of Elmley village and more. Our aim is to forge strong long-term connections with the schools and children for years to come.
Wellie & Wet Weather Clothing Collection
- To ensure that all school children joining us on trips are able to fully enjoy Elmley, we have opened up a collection for children's wellies & wet weather clothes, allowing us to have a stock of items for children to use if needed. If you have any spare or unwanted items, that are clean and in fairly good condition, we would really appreciate any donations you can offer. Our collection point is currently in Kingshill Barn entrance, please feel free to drop them off when you can.
Check back for more project updates very soon.
You can find out more about our new Nature Programme in our Journal Post.
