Youth Groups in Action

A highlight of the year was the All-Wales Youth Summit, held in January at the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth. The event brought together young people from across Wales to share ideas, experiences, and ambitions around sustainability, climate action, and careers in the environmental sector. 

Our members particularly enjoyed trying their hand at green woodworking, learning about sustainable building methods and discovering how solar panels are made. For some, it was their first time staying away from home without their parents, an experience they found both exciting and empowering.  Surrounded by nature and supported by friends who shared the same passion for the environment, the summit left lasting memories and a renewed sense of purpose.

Alongside the excitement came a sense of sadness at the realisation this was likely the fifth and final All‑Wales Youth Summit. The National Lottery funded Stand for Nature Wales project comes to an end in March, concluding five years of inspiring young people to learn about biodiversity, environmental challenges, and how they can take meaningful action. While the project is coming to an end, the skills, confidence, and passion developed by participants will continue to thrive. Youth groups in Gwent will continue, but the format may evolve.

Meanwhile, the Pontypool Community Council funded Pontypool Wild Spaces has completed its first year and is moving confidently into year two. Building on strong foundations, young people from the Pontypool Pioneers group have worked alongside volunteers to help care for local green spaces, provided a series of public events and strengthened their connection to the natural world. The transition into year two marks an exciting new chapter, with even more opportunities for growth, learning, and community impact.

There have also been many positive stories from our other youth groups. In Magor, the Wildlife Warriors have been making a real difference, taking pride in the development of the community allotment and making plans to install a rainwater garden at the Magor and Undy Community Hub. Meanwhile, the Nature Nurturers group has been busy developing creative ideas to help protect GWT’s Ten Vulnerable Species, showcasing both innovation and a strong sense of responsibility for the natural world.

Opportunities for Young People

GWT provides a wide range of opportunities that help young people grow in confidence, develop new skills, and explore inspiring future careers.

Young people can access work experience placements, providing valuable insight into different career paths and helping to build confidence, employability skills, and real-world understanding.

Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award remains a popular option, encouraging young people to challenge themselves, develop independence, and gain nationally recognised accreditation.

Support is also available for those completing the Welsh Baccalaureate, with opportunities that align with skills challenges, community involvement, and wider learning goals.

Volunteering opportunities for under 18s allow young people the chance to give back to their communities, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and make a meaningful contribution from an early age. 

Alongside these opportunities, our youth team delivers hands-on educational visits and outdoor learning for schools, home‑education groups and colleges. We offer half‑ and full‑day curriculum‑linked sessions at the Derek Upton Centre, Magor Marsh, and the Environmental Resource Centre in Ebbw Vale, including activities such as pond dipping, minibeast hunts and habitat investigations. Our team can also visit schools to run nature‑based workshops or deliver inspiring talks on helping wildlife and living more sustainably.

More information about our opportunities for young people can be found at www.gwentwildlife.org/youth