Our Foundation students have been developing their employability skills by volunteering on a community project with Cheshire Wildlife Trust (CWT).
The students have been taking part in the ‘Go Wild – Get Fit’ project as part of their Career Development Pathway which prepares them for work experience and their future career. Over the past six weeks they have spent one day a week at Marbury Country Park near Northwich helping to make a community garden more accessible to people and wildlife.
The student team, accompanied by Course Manager Gemma Comerford and Learning Support Assistant Karen Stubbs, have been painting and putting up bird boxes, clearing overgrown beds, planting willow whips, repairing fences and creating pathways in the garden, which is owned by Cheshire West and Chester Council and managed by CWT.
As well as developing their confidence and ability, they have been enjoying wildlife walks, learning to identify birds and taking part in mindfulness sessions. On their final day they were treated to a barbecue and certificate presentation.
Katie Greenwood, CWT’s Natural Wellbeing Project Manager, said: “Reaseheath’s Foundation students have been the perfect group to launch this project. They have been a fantastic team who have completed every task with enthusiasm whatever the weather. I wish them ever luck with their work experience and future careers.”
Student Amy Cordial said: “I’ve had an amazing time working with CWT, helping the animals and birds. I now feel more confident and independent. I’ve really enjoyed spending the time with my friends too. It’s been great fun!”
Kamron Forman said: “I’ve done so many things I haven’t tried before. I’ve learned how to lay paths properly and really enjoyed bird watching. Our final barbecue was ace!”
Also in the student group were: Jenna Crossley, Andrew Blackburn, Frankie Coveney, Emma Need, Matthew Mason and Lewis Wilde
The ‘Go Wild – Get Fit’ project is funded by Sport England and delivered by CWT.
WATCH Katie tells how she solved her own back pain by working out-of-doors. You may see some of our Foundation students at work! ITV1 Thursday February 28, 7.30pm ‘Back Pain: Britain’s Unseen Crisis’
