The initiative, part of the new national Championing Nature programme, will support communities with limited access to green space by offering high-quality outdoor learning and engagement experiences across London. The project is being delivered in partnership with three other Wildlife Trusts across the country Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust; the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside; and Northumberland Wildlife Trust.

The Trust’s Wild About Learning programme will deliver nature-based education sessions for schools, families and local residents at our nature reserves across London. Each year, this generous funding will support us to run 150 school sessions, reaching more than 5,600 pupils and delivering over 250 family learning sessions for 2,500 children. Sessions will be rooted in the National Curriculum and tailored to the seasons, with children and families taking part in hands-on activities including bug hunts, pond dipping, bird watching, storytelling, crafts, and nature play.

The programme is focused on reaching those who are least likely to have regular access to nature. Research has found that one in eight children from low socio-economic backgrounds aged under 12 has never experienced nature, with lack of green space and transport costs cited as major barriers. With the support of this new partnership, we can help even more Londoners develop nature connections — and create a lasting legacy of healthier, greener, more resilient communities.

The project will also invest in new outdoor learning spaces, with a nature play and learning area at Woodberry Wetlands and a sensory wildlife garden and education hub at Gunnersbury Triangle.

Charlie Sims, Director of Visitor Experience at London Wildlife Trust, said:

“Connecting people with nature isn’t as simple as opening the gates — it’s about removing physical, social, and financial barriers to accessing wild spaces. It also means creating relevant and inclusive programmes that help everyone feel a genuine sense of belonging in nature. This funding enables us to accelerate our Learning and Engagement work and bring wildlife back to the heart of communities across London.”

Naturalist, presenter and writer Steve Backshall MBE has lent his support as ambassador for the programme. Speaking at the launch at the AELTC’s Community Tennis Centre in Raynes Park, he said:

“I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable benefits that a closer connection to nature and the outdoors can provide. The Championing Nature programme is a great opportunity to encourage children, young people and families living in urban environments to discover and explore the green spaces around them. Through my role as President of Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, I’m familiar with the fantastic work these organisations do to protect wildlife and enhance the natural environment. The four Wildlife Trusts have some exciting plans ready to roll out, thanks to the support of the Championing Nature programme, and I am looking forward to seeing the positive difference they will make to the lives of many.”

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