Embedded Files
Over a 12 month period, participants engaged with the landscape heritage of Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Bradfield Woods – one of the finest coppiced ancient woodlands in Britain. Participants were child carers and adults recovering from mental health challenges.
Professionals working on the project included a tree expert, a photographer, an artist, a Wildlife Trust Education Officer and a traditional craftsman – all of whom ran engaging, informative and fun workshops
The project was made possible through The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Varied workshops centred on learning the social, industrial and natural history of the managed woods. In November, participants learnt how to coppice the woodland.
Sculptor David Whatley showed participants how to create traditional runes from coppiced hazel to form a runic fence.
Craftsman David Wheeler ran a hands-on workshop for participants to create their own traditional rake.
"The day has left me comfortable with making my own decisions – through woodworking. I usually struggle to do this."
"This day has help me build confidence."
"Thank you. I've never actually completed a practical project before. It was very well taught and easy to follow."
"It was well run, relaxing and productive. I have learned a number of techniques. It was good to enjoy the natural environment."
"This was an excellent day course with something to show for our efforts. I enjoyed learning new skills with traditional tools and enjoyed therapy for wellbeing."
"I'm so happy to be here. I'm used to being indoors."
A natural history notebook of the project was created:
The project also enabled young carers to engage in hands on learning, such as collecting, creating and using natural pigments from the woodland, whilst enjoying a fun day out away from their usual caring role.
Many more photos from the project, and further extracts from the nature notebook, can be found at our project photo album on Flickr:
Google Sites
Report abuse