I am a fairly new volunteer at Foxburrow Farm, I started in September 2019. However, as a teacher I think I have been bringing children to Foxburrow Farm since its beginning. I recognised the huge impact the outdoor and natural world could have upon my pupils, mostly town-based, many thanks to Judy and her enthusiasm initially.

In over 30 years of teaching, I have been delighted to participate in a wide range of Suffolk Wildlife Trust education activities – Forest School, School Grounds assessments, training and support through Wild Awards and Wildlife Watch – it has always been a delight to take our pupils into their journey with wildlife and nature.

I became a volunteer once I realised these educational visits could not take place without the volunteers who help make it all happen. Foxburrow Farm is a beautiful place to be, with amazing supportive staff who are so inclusive, who guide and nurture everyone. I have also volunteered at Rendlesham Forest – a magical and inspiring place to be with children and the Natural World.

Every session I volunteer brings a highlight – from our lovely monthly Home Educated group of children who improve their team building skills at each session to the Practitioners who are working towards their Forest School Training. Wild Tots, Apple Day and the Family Forest Days are also amazing when you see children and their parents/carers connecting together with nature.

I have learnt so much from the team and also from my fellow volunteers, I have missed them so much during the Lockdown!

Volunteering for Suffolk Wildlife Trust can only bring joy - to you personally, to children and young people, to teachers and educators and to protect and nurture the natural world as we know it and to carry this message into the future for new generations to hopefully enjoy.

Jo Reed.