Thames21 is an environmental charity which reconnects people to nature by helping them enjoy, protect and enhance their local rivers. The Welsh Harp Environmental Education Centre is run by Thames21 and is an amazing local community space attended by thousands of school children and members of the community each year.

The Education Centre has 12 acres of woodland and needs the support of local volunteers who are passionate about the environment to help us care for and nurture the site to keep it safe and running smoothly for our visitors.

Volunteers would be needed for approximately 5 hours per fortnight in afternoons Monday-Friday, mainly during school term time. The 5 hours can be spread throughout the fortnight.

Welsh Harp Centre Volunteers may carry out the following tasks:

• Undertake any small gardening jobs necessary to maintain the woodland pathways, teaching spaces and play area using hand tools such as secateurs. This will include trimming brambles and pulling stinging nettles. Tools and boots provided.
• Help the Education Officer with preparing for upcoming school sessions and tidying up after sessions.
• Help create resources for school and family sessions which includes jobs such as cutting, laminating and sorting.

Skills description:

• Good organisational skills, punctual and reliable, keen to work outdoors in any weather, ability to absorb information quickly and clear communication skills are essential.
• Interpersonal skills and able to use own initiative are desirable skills.
• Able to use hand tools such as secateurs and scissors and ability to sweep the floor.

Benefits for you:

• Opportunities for practising wildlife identification
• Get outdoors in the fresh air in a lovely nature setting at the education centre.

• Gain valuable skills and experience in outdoor work and environmental education activities.