A successful project to clear overgrown trails and replace a worn-out walkway at Northmoor Hill Nature Reserve, has inspired young pupils at Denham Green Academy to go fossil hunting as part of their nature studies.
The ancient woodland, which dates back to the 1590s, is part of the Colne Valley Regional Park and a haven for wildlife as well as being known for its geology.
With thick vegetation and boggy ground making walking difficult, Colnbrook-based waste specialist Grundon stepped forward with a donation of over £21,000, via the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF) to help enable work to take place.
The overall project, which totalled over £50,000, included installing a long-lasting recycled plastic boardwalk, new signage, a tree survey and habitat works.
Among the first to benefit were five and six-year-olds from the local school, who were joined for their day out by Jill Eyers from Bucks Geology Group. Joanna Guadagno, Early Years Lead and Reception Teacher, explains: “We have been inspired by our science and geography topics; we have been learning about various habitats and fossils, and exploring the lives of significant people such as Mary Anning.
The children were very fortunate to find some fossils and truly enjoyed listening to Jill explain how fossils are created, among other things.
“Jill was amazing, she inspired all of our children, who described it as a fantastic trip and they have already asked if they can visit again next year. As a teacher, I have genuinely enjoyed this opportunity and strongly believe that it enhances the children’s knowledge across many areas of their education.”
Joanna Guadagno
Early Years Lead and Reception Teacher
Recently Kirsti Santer, Head of Marketing & Communications, followed in the children’s footsteps for a visit.
“The woods at Northmoor Hill are so peaceful and you feel as if you are stepping back in time when you’re walking the trails,” she said. “Being able to support a nature project in the heart of our operating area is one of our favourite things to do and we’re especially delighted to hear the children had such an inspiring time.”
Bergey Sigurdardottir, Colne Connections & Landscapes Manager at community and environmental charity Groundwork South, which leases the woods, explains: “This is a very special area of habitat that includes wet woodland and the ‘rock route’ – a trail that winds down towards the former chalk quarry and is full of interesting flints, fossils and stones.
“It’s really important for us to preserve this ancient area and make sure that people can use it, which is why this work has been so significant. We are very grateful to Grundon for its support and we hope this will encourage more local people to come and explore the reserve for themselves.”