The Blog @ Shropshire Wildlife Trust

It’s taken a while to find the words to write this post. We’ve been trained in delivering a concept that lets you experience the natural world around you and really bond with it. Imagine a lesson where the plan is to lie under a tree in the sunshine and just shut your eyes. Or how about letting your class into a secret? You’ve been to the end of the rainbow and brought back the treasure to share…

An Earthwalk gives you the space and time to enjoy nature by getting up close; sniffing, scratching, listening and speaking with a French accent -this last one is optional!

You might not have heard of Earthwalks before; and you may be forgiven in thinking “hippy nonsense- what’s the point?” But since training with Jon Cree from Bishop’s Wood in Worcestershire, we can honestly say our understanding of Earth Education and environmental education has changed.

The very first Earthwalk we led since the training course had 30 children lying on the woodland floor in the school grounds, telling me their school building was an enchanted castle over a vast green ocean.

One child with learning difficulties told me he could hear a sound that came from “inside a cloud”.

We all (teachers included) also spent some time with coloured sponges soaked in “Magic Smell Improver” rubbing them on our noses and inhaling smells of tree bark, soil and frozen leaves.

Comments at the end of the walk included “wow”, “magical” and “really different”- some pupils were so caught up in their own worlds sitting in their Magic Spots, that they didn’t realise the session was over.

Again, thanks must go to Jon Cree for his patience and creativity in training us to lead Earthwalks in Shropshire- oh, and for his marvellous French accent!

If you are inspired to take part in an Earthwalk, or simply want to know why French accents are important in their delivery, then please contact us or leave a comment below. Earthwalks are most effective for children aged 7 years and older, but are great fun for adults too - we can come into your school and help you set up your own.