A student-led initiative at Cherwell School, Oxford, to enhance biodiversity and human well-being through nature education and participatory design of a new green school space.
Project Aims
The project aims to explore how biodiversity enhancements and active engagement with green spaces impacts student and staff well-being, while developing transferable knowledge for nature education and recovery.
Methods
We are using participatory methods, such as mapping, design workshops, and biodiversity surveys, alongside well-being and nature-related questionnaires to co-create and evaluate the development of the site.
Collaborators
The project is a collaboration between Cherwell School’s Young Ecologist Club and staff, Oxford University’s Wytham Woods educators, and Oxford University researchers in nature recovery and well-being.
Importance
This research addresses the growing need for nature-based programmes in education. We aim to demonstrate how enhancing green spaces in schools can support mental health and well-being, whilst also enhancing biodiversity, improving climate resilience, and informing broader nature recovery initiatives.
Key findings
Initial findings show that participatory mapping and biodiversity-based activities can increase engagement and awareness among students, highlighting the potential for school estates to provide both educational and ecological benefits.
Applications
The findings will inform best practices for integrating nature recovery initiatives and biodiversity-related education in school environments, supporting the National Education Nature Park initiative and contributing to broader efforts in nature recovery and mental health improvement.
Key Researchers:
Dr Katrin Wilhelm, OH BRC Flourishing and Wellbeing Theme
Joe Boyle, School of Geography and the Environment
