Wildlife Watch is the junior branch of The Wildlife Trusts and the leading environmental action club for kids; it is all about children and the natural world around them. Watch activities.
Across the UK thousands of volunteers are dedicated to running Wildlife Watch groups where children can meet and have fun exploring their natural environment. Going regularly to a group helps young people develop real understanding and commitment to the world around them.
Watch groups give children opportunities to discover local wildlife and get stuck into various practical activities from environmental artwork and waste recycling, to barn owl surveys, pond dipping and wildflower fun days. Other opportunities include badge watching, bat detecting, wildlife gardening, environmental games, and wildlife campaigning.
All groups operate within a monitored framework of child welfare and safety and all leaders undergo a thorough recruitment process to check their suitability to work with young people. If you are interested in helping at your local Watch group or would like more information about setting one up click here. No expert knowledge is required just a passion for the natural environment and inspiring the next generation; you will receive local and national support and guidance.
To find out more about your children attending your local Watch group contact Gordon Scaife on 01904 659570 or email him.
Youngsters who are really into wildlife and the environment can join Wildlife Watch as members. By becoming a member, children will receive a membership card and badge, a 'Ready for Action' guide to wildlife watching, and Watchword and Wildlife Extra magazines which are sent three times a year and are packed with features on UK wildlife news and events, activity ideas, competitions and cartoons.
Wildlife Watch also has its own award scheme offering members the opportunity to have their personal environmental efforts awarded and recognised. The Gold Award comprises eight challenges designed to encourage members aged eight and over to explore and protect their environment, whilst also offering plenty of scope for individual choice and ability. Watch Startlet is a more basic scheme available for members aged five and over.
Membership costs £10 per year, or £12 for up to four children living at the same address. Visit the membership page for more information.
This is an opportunity to subscribe to all Watch publications. These can enable you to work with children to help them investigate and appreciate their local environment. The package may support classroom study, or be used as the foundation for informed activities run through local youth groups, country parks or schools.
School membership costs £30 per year; visit the membership page for more information.