Pupils from Millom School Join Forces for Forestry Restoration Project

Pupils at Millom School have been acquiring knowledge on hands-on conservation techniques and farming methods that are beneficial for nature.

The students have taken part in a woodland regeneration initiative in the Duddon Valley, engaging in tree and wildflower planting activities there.

They have additionally set up remote camera traps to monitor birds and mammals, and collaborated with farmers throughout their six sessions as part of the Restoring Hardknott Forest Project.

A student from Millom School heading out to water the recently planted trees (Image: Supplied) The restoration of Hardknott Forest is a collaborative effort between Forestry England and the University of Leeds, aimed at converting an old conifer plantation back into native woodlands, peat bogs, and various natural habitats.

The journeys became feasible thanks to financial backing from the Faith in Futures Foundation, a charity established by the Northern Monk brewery aimed at aiding community-oriented organizations and initiatives.

The cameras installed by the students have already recorded videos of red squirrels and roe deer. Additionally, the children contributed to the continuous rejuvenation efforts at the 630-hectare area by planting oak trees along with wildflowers like ragged robin.

The camera set up by the pupils captured a red squirrel (Image: Supplied) The farm visit featured a tour conducted by Paddy Deady from Troutal Farm, who was eager to demonstrate how hill farming and wildlife can coexist harmoniously.

Along with examining the newly formed ponds and other regions where Mr Deady is permitting nature to reclaim them, the children also encountered some recently born lambs.

John Hodgson, the Restoring Hardknott Forest Project Officer, expressed his admiration for the group’s zeal.

Students observed new-born lambs at Troutal Farm. (Image: Supplied) He stated: "During their visits, we genuinely kept the students quite busy as they have been planting and watering trees and wildflowers for the project, along with assisting Paddy with some fence work."

What really inspired me was how the group demonstrated their regard for nature – spontaneously stopping to pick up litter as we moved around different areas of the location.

Chloe Moore, a teacher at Millom School, commented: "The pupils have thoroughly enjoyed their involvement with the Restoring Hardknott Forest initiative."

Reaching the forest always brings about excitement, and the students genuinely feel accomplished as they play an active role in enhancing the well-being of the area’s native animals.

One of the standout experiences was discovering how agriculture and wildlife preservation can coexist effectively.

Edd Gallagher, who works as the community development manager for Northern Monk, commented: “The efforts of Restoring Hardknott Forest in teaching folks about nature and our surroundings have made a significant difference. Additionally, their incredible offerings have greatly influenced both our team dynamics and operational strategies at Northern Monk.”

The opportunity to provide such remarkable experiences for pupils at Millom School, enabling them to learn beyond the confines of the classroom, connect with nature, and develop an attachment to their environment, fills me with genuine pride. It exemplifies our aspirations for what the Faith in Futures foundation aims to accomplish.