
Local children team up with ecologists to become nature detectives
Local children team up with ecologists to become nature detectives in new conservation project in South Downs National Park
Young nature enthusiasts have taken on the role of conservationists as part of a new project aimed at uncovering the secrets of the chalk grassland ecosystems within the South Downs National Park, near Winchester Science Centre.
The Conservation with Children project, launched by Wonderseekers, the charity behind Winchester Science Centre, has brought together a lively group of 10 local children aged 7-10 years old to form the Young Conservation Group.
These budding conservationists are collaborating with expert ecologists from Johns Associates to explore, protect, and celebrate the unique chalk grassland habitats, which have recently been designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
While discovering dormice footprints, identifying bird songs, exploring rare plant species, and monitoring wildlife using night cameras and echolocation detectors, the children will conduct weekly scientific biodiversity surveys, reflect on their findings, and share them in creative and engaging ways.
Through journaling, artwork, video storytelling, and nature writing, the children’s discoveries will culminate in a showcase at Winchester Science Centre.
This exhibition will enable thousands of visitors to see the land through the eyes of children, aiming to inspire other young people and families to take action for the future of our planet. The findings will also directly inform how the Charity manages the land to prioritise biodiversity and children’s connection to nature.
Ben Ward, CEO of Wonderseekers, said:
“We’re so proud to be working with Johns Associates and the incredible children who make up our new Young Conservation Group.
Through this project, we’re giving children the chance to explore their environment, ask big scientific questions, and contribute to real conservation efforts.
We’re incredibly lucky to be the custodians of this precious chalk grassland site but it’s essential that conservation isn’t carried out behind closed doors and more importantly, this activity must include and be visible to children.
It’s their voices that will shape the future of our planet – and we’re listening.”
Matt Johns from Johns Associates added:
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Wonderseekers and the Young Conservation Group. This project not only allows us to share our passion and knowledge of ecology but also inspires the next generation to appreciate and protect our natural world.
Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the conservation of the chalk grassland habitats, amazing animals and fostering a lifelong love for nature in these young minds.”
The Conservation with Children project is the next step in Wonderseekers’ mission to place children at the heart of the climate and biodiversity conversation and action. It has been developed using Wonderseekers' proven equitable partnership model, which brings together children, subject specialists, and artists to form a core project team.
This team empowers children through hands-on, accessible science experiences rooted in their local landscape, supporting knowledge exchange and learning for all partners.
As the project unfolds, Wonderseekers will share updates through its website and social media channels, providing insight into the children’s discoveries and the wonders of Hampshire’s hidden natural world.
About Wonderseekers
Wonderseekers is a children’s charity empowering kids through science engagement to improve lives and protect the planet. Founded in 1986 and renamed in 2022, it focuses on hands-on science experiences to raise aspirations and promote diversity and inclusion.
Through immersive activities in schools and communities, as well as its discovery centre in Winchester, Wonderseekers sparks children’s curiosity about science.
With its For People and Planet strategy launched in 2023, the charity aims to actively engage children with science and inspire them to combat climate change. For more background: www.wonderseekers.charity
About Winchester Science Centre
The Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, located in South Downs National Park, is ideal for families with children aged 3-12.
It features two floors of interactive science exhibits, nature exploration, live science demonstrations, and one of the UK's largest Planetariums.
Welcoming over 100,000 visitors annually, the Centre is open on weekends and during school holidays, offering seasonal events included in the admission price. It also hosts evening events and provides engaging workshops for over 40,000 school children each year.
For more details: www.winchestersciencecentre.org
About Johns Associates
Johns Associates are environmental specialists and ecologists working to bring science-led sustainability and biodiversity solutions to organisations and communities across the UK. For more information: www.johnsassociates.co.uk