Students from across The Two Counties Trust’s nine secondary schools came together at Lea Green Outdoor Activity Centre to celebrate Earth Day 2025. The event gave students the chance to connect with the world we share and learn more about how they can protect it for future generations.
With no time to waste, students were split into mixed groups, encouraging them to meet and work alongside peers from other Trust schools. They then embarked on a carousel of engaging activities designed to build awareness of conservation, teamwork and the natural world.
One of the most memorable experiences for many was the Bird on the Hand falconry session. In small groups, students had the chance to handle a variety of birds of prey and learn about the important ecological roles these species play. They were able to get up close to the birds, observe their features and behaviours and ask questions.
Equally inspiring was the Paws for Conservation session, where students watched detection dogs in action. After being challenged to find hidden objects themselves, students saw the highly trained dogs quickly and accurately locate them using scent. They also learned how these dogs are supporting vital environmental work across the country.
Creativity was encouraged through land art activities, where students used natural fallen materials to produce striking pieces, while others created seed bombs and solitary bee hotels. Some groups tackled orienteering challenges around the site, while others took part in an army workshop, solving conservation-themed scenarios based on real efforts to protect endangered species.
Students also took part in a bushcraft session, where they practised outdoor skills that helped them understand how to interact safely and respectfully with the environment.
Sustainability remained a focus throughout the event as students received reusable water bottles made from sugarcane waste and enjoyed lunch served in bento boxes made from plastic recovered from the ocean.
Although each student’s journey through the day was different, together they returned with new knowledge, shared experiences and a drive to encourage environmental action across The Two Counties Trust.
