Over the years, hundreds of students have completed their Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award volunteering with us. They have made a huge contribution to protecting and restoring the countryside in Reigate and surrounding areas.
By volunteering with us, you can learn practical countryside skills, have fun outdoors with your friends, and make a real difference to your local nature. It may even inspire a future career in countryside management!
Testimonials go here
Volunteers under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult or have a designated adult responsible for them. This can be the task leader if your parent or guardian has signed this consent form.
Everyone is Welcome. We enjoy welcoming new faces! No previous experience is needed.
What to Expect
Everyone is very friendly and always happy to help if you aren't sure what to do. We will explain everything and show you how to use the tools we provide. Before you know it, you'll be having a great time, enjoying the beautiful views of your local countryside, and the company of like-minded people.
What Time do task days Start and Finish?
We begin at 10am and normally finish by 4pm. You are welcome to leave early. Please arrive on time at the start of the task, as this is when instructions and guidance are given to everyone.
Do I have to take part every week?
You do not need to show up every week. Come along when you can.
What about the Weather?
What about it? 😊 We work in all weathers. During winter there is usually a fire to warm you up if you get cold. If the weather is particularly bad, we may cancel or finish early. If the weather is dangerous, we will cancel or stop.
On the Day
Every task is led by an experienced leader who will provide guidance and training that’s relevant to that day’s task.
This includes:
What we are doing and the reasons why
How we are going to do it
Site safety and he safe and correct use of tools
What To Bring
Enthusiasm!
Suitable work clothes. These should be comfortable, but hardwearing and close fitting while allowing ease of movement. Most experienced volunteers work on a layered clothing principle to keep you warm in winter, cool in summer.
Good waterproofs – just in case! A jacket or cagoule and over-trousers made of waxed cotton, or breathable fabrics such as Gortex is ideal. Don’t rely on thin nylon cagoules as they don’t keep you warm or dry.
A pair of work gloves. (We supply these if you don’t have them!)
Stout footwear such as boots or wellies. If you’re buying a new pair, get steel toe capped ones for extra protection.
A packed lunch and water. Many of our volunteers also bring a flask of hot water for tea or coffee.
Sun hats and sun cream in summer.
A warm hat in winter.
Anti-tetanus jabs. Not compulsory, but if you come out regularly, we strongly recommend you keep your immunisation up to date.
Membership
If you decide to regularly attend our task days, why not become a member! Our membership fees cover the cost of chocolate biscuits, as well as more formal training opportunities.
