Youngsters from 1st Godshill Scouts have been getting hands-on with nature, building 75 bird boxes for just £45 as part of a community project aimed at helping wildlife across the Isle of Wight.
Almost 75 young people took part in the initiative, which was inspired by the Greening Campaign’s Spaces for Nature programme and brought together Scouts, parents, local volunteers and members of Brighstone Men in Sheds.
The project began after Central Rural Ward was selected as a pilot area for the Greening Campaign, prompting representatives from the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to join residents and community organisations for a walk through Godshill.
The group explored opportunities to improve habitats and create more space for wildlife throughout the village.
During discussions, representatives from Godshill Scouts expressed an interest in getting involved in practical conservation work.
With around 85 young people in the group, the idea quickly developed into a bird box building project that would allow Scouts to learn new skills while supporting local birdlife.
Using designs provided by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, volunteers prepared kits from recycled, heat-treated pallet wood, keeping both costs and environmental impact low.
The entire project cost just £45, which the Scouts funded themselves.
Volunteers from Brighstone Men in Sheds joined Scout leaders, parents and other community members to help the youngsters assemble their boxes, which can now provide nesting opportunities for birds in gardens and green spaces.
For some of those involved, the project had a particularly personal meaning.
One Scout said:
“I have made and am decorating this for my grandad who passed away. I am going to put it on his tree that we planted and he can enjoy the birds that come to visit.”
Another youngster was delighted to discover they could take their creation home, saying:
“It was really fun. Am I really allowed to take this home?”
One Scout who did not have a garden of their own already had plans for where their bird box could go.
“I don’t have a garden, but I know the perfect place for it at my friend’s house in the big tree we climb.”
The sessions also provided an opportunity for the youngsters to learn more about birds and their nesting habits, with one Scout admitting they had not realised birds could fit through such small holes.
Mary Kershaw, Scout Leader, has said:
“Days like this really show what our young people can achieve when we’ve got a few extra adults behind them.
“With just a bit more help, the adventures get bigger, the smiles get wider and the possibilities explode.
“If you’ve ever thought about stepping in, now’s your moment. Give us a shout and be a part of what we do next.”
The initiative supports the objectives of the Isle of Wight’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which encourages residents to take practical steps to protect wildlife and improve biodiversity close to home.
Robin Kent, Group Lead Volunteer, has said:
“This was an example of community working at its best; Scouting Team, parents, carers, Brighstone Men in Sheds working with our young people, mentoring, encouraging and developing new skills for the benefit of nature.
“You could see and feel the pride at the end of each session. ‘Woodworking is never this much fun at school’ said one of our cubs.”
Following the success of the project, Godshill Scouts are now developing a case study to share with other Scout groups across the Isle of Wight, with the hope that similar initiatives can be introduced elsewhere.
The group has also produced a bird-themed activity sheet to accompany the practical sessions, helping youngsters learn more about the wildlife around them.
Uniformed groups interested in obtaining the activity sheet or project case study can contact 1st Godshill Scouts by emailing [email protected].
