Education Volunteering
Inspire the next generation
Surrey Wildlife Trust teaches a range of curriculum-linked programmes to children at all stages of education.
We also run holiday clubs, birthday parties and open days throughout the year.
However, our education teams couldn't function without the support of our fantastic volunteers, and we are always looking to expand our team.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Community Engagement, you can email us at volunteers@surreywt.org.uk and will do our very best to respond to you as quickly as possible.
Education Volunteer opportunities
Teaching Volunteers
Activities range from finding fairies with four year olds to teaching teenagers to survey plant diversity; every day is different. You can choose the age group you volunteer with and we’ll give you all the training and support you need.
Administration Volunteers
We are always looking for help managing all of the bookings that come in daily and the data that go with them, if you are computer-literate and love admin, we would love your help!
Wildlife Watch Leaders
Wildlife Watch is the UK's leading environmental-action club for children. If you would like to establish a club for your area and are happy to plan, organise and run Wildlife Watch meetings then get in touch!
Event Volunteers
Activities vary from holiday activities, wild tots and family events. We are always looking for volunteers to assist with these events. You can choose the age group you volunteer with and we'll provide any training you require.
Playing a small part in introducing young people to the wonders of nature can be a very moving experienceVolunteer
Volunteer stories
Liz Edwardes
I joined the Education Team at SWT in June 2016. I had recently stopped working as a project manager for an education charity and was looking to become involved as a volunteer in Surrey. I knew I wanted to continue working with children and I wanted to be outside and, thanks to the power of Google, up popped the Surrey Wildlife Trust. The spread of activities offered and the fact that I did not have to commit to specific hours or days suited me perfectly. I volunteer at Nower Wood as it is closer to my home.
There are many things that I love about being a volunteer at Nower Wood. Here’s my top 5:
- Playing a small part in introducing young people to the wonders of nature can be a very moving experience
- The SWT staff are terrific and it is a real pleasure to work with them
- I learn so much every time I help with an activity. I often feel I am part of the visiting group rather than one of the SWT team!
- The vast number of bookings mean that I can help as often as I am able
- It is FUN! Being out in the woods is magical - you can make campfires and get muddy*. What’s not to like?
If you are interested in volunteering I really recommend coming along and getting involved with an activity. It is one of the best things I have ever done. I love it!
*Optional!
Lizzie Foster
I started volunteering for Surrey Wildlife Trust as a part of their education team to help gain the experience needed for a wildlife education job. At first I shadowed sessions to really build my knowledge on all things plants, invertebrates, fungi and birds. I can now lead sessions and get stuck in with minibeast hunting, pond dipping and woodland walks. I highly recommend volunteering for the team at Nower Wood and Bay Pond, as their passion and knowledge enthuses both the students and volunteers like myself!
