Conservation Projects – Four Amazing Initiatives Involving College Students

Bournemouth and Poole College students and staff have taken part in four exceptional conservation projects this year. These important projects help with community, inclusion and sustainability and biodiversity, amongst other subjects.

1.Exploring Lorton Meadows by Train: A Journey of Discovery and Inclusion

On a bright November morning, students and teachers from the college embarked on a special trip to Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Lorton Meadows nature reserve in Weymouth. Funded by South Western Railway, the visit gave post-16 foundation learners—many of whom are autistic—a chance to experience the joy of rail travel and the beauty of Dorset’s countryside.

Departing from Poole Station, the group travelled by train to Upwey, the nearest stop to Lorton Meadows. Some students, like Leo and Owen, preferred the train to car travel, enjoying its reliability and freedom from traffic. One student excitedly recited the timetable and updated fellow passengers about service changes, showing how trains can become a positive focus for autistic individuals who often thrive on structure and routine.

Train travel, while sometimes overwhelming due to noise or crowds, also brings comfort. Lecturer Heather explained that heavy backpacks can help autistic students feel grounded and secure. The timetables have a positive influence as students who like to know the leaving and arrival times. Ryan appreciated tracking the journey on his phone, and Rory used the table charger to listen to music and block out noise. Others simply enjoyed the passing scenery, enjoying views rarely seen in town.

After arriving at Upwey, the group walked to Lorton Meadows, where they explored muddy paths and woodland trails with curiosity and excitement. The journey was as memorable as the destination itself.

2.Poole Planters Transformed to Support Urban Biodiversity

During April 2025, students, community leaders, and local partners came together to launch a project that reflected their shared commitment to creating a more biodiverse and environmentally resilient town centre in Poole.

Dorset Wildlife Trust and Poole BID both launched a joint initiative to enhance green spaces across Poole town centre and support urban biodiversity. The project involved replacing traditional seasonal bedding plants in the town’s iconic three-tier planters with perennial, pollinator-friendly species.

Key planter clusters located near the Custom House Bistro, the Lord Nelson Pub, and Guildhall Gardens have been redesigned to meet criteria for Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Wildlife Friendly Space Award. These enhanced planters now feature peat-free compost, insect hotels, water sources, and plants carefully selected to attract bees and other pollinators.

Dorset Wildlife Trust is funding the planting of these designated clusters, while Poole BID is financing the remaining planters throughout the town and taking responsibility for year-round maintenance.

Anona Dawson, Wilder Communities Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust, explained the project’s wider impact: “This is a fantastic opportunity to show how even small urban spaces can support biodiversity. These planters will provide vital microhabitats for wildlife, encouraging the community to take everyday actions that support nature.”

Wendy King, Communications and Operations Manager at Poole BID, added: “These wildlife-friendly planters not only brighten the town but also help support essential pollinators. We hope they’ll inspire others—residents and businesses alike—to choose sustainable planting and contribute to a greener, more vibrant Poole.”

3.Students Enjoy Nature and Photography on Brownsea Island

Also, on 23^rd April, a group of photography students enjoyed a memorable and enriching visit to Brownsea Island, organised by Anona Dawson, Wilder Communities Officer at Dorset Wildlife Trust. The free trip provided a perfect blend of nature, learning, and creativity, allowing students to explore the island’s unique wildlife and capture its beauty through their lenses.

The day began with an exciting boat ride to the island, where the group was welcomed by the island’s warden. A fascinating talk on the history of Brownsea set the tone for the visit, offering students an insight into the island’s rich heritage and ecological importance.

Following the introduction, Anona led a guided walk to three bird hides, sharing her extensive knowledge of local birdlife and the surrounding natural environment. Students had the chance to observe birds in their habitats, use binoculars, and ask questions—an experience that inspired both curiosity and creativity.

After the tour, the group gathered for lunch beneath a large oak tree, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and taking time to reflect on the day.

The visit proved to be a highlight for many students:

Brandon described the experience as “gorgeous, peaceful, and meditative.” Leo enjoyed the boat ride and laughed about a classmate imitating geese sounds on his phone. Deacon loved using the binoculars, noting, “I watched the birds fighting over their territory.” Finally, Taylor particularly enjoyed walking the boardwalk and exploring the hides.

The day offered students a powerful connection to nature - through both the lens and their own experience.

4.Exploring Upton Country Park’s Sensory Trail

Finally, on 28^th April, first-year STEPs students from Bournemouth and Poole College visited Upton Country Park to experience its developing sensory trail. Building on last year’s visit—where students explored ideas for creating the trail—this year’s group had the opportunity to follow the completed route using a specially designed map highlighting key sensory points.

The students navigated the trail independently, engaging with a variety of sensory experiences along the way. They identified local birds and their songs, observed native plants, and spotted wildlife, making the most of the trail’s natural surroundings.

The walk, which took around 1.5 hours to complete, was made even more enjoyable by clear skies and warm sunshine. The sensory trail offered not only an educational experience but also a calming and inclusive environment for exploration and reflection.