Forestry Youth Camp opens doors for young people

With the UK facing ambitious tree cover targets as part of its net zero commitments, the forest industry needs to grow its workforce by up to 72%. Meeting this challenge will require not only more people, but a broader range of skills and greater diversity across the sector.

The week-long camp offered participants a fully funded opportunity to explore how forests and woodlands connect to everyday life and global issues. Through outdoor learning, hands-on activities and conversations with professionals, the camp helped young people build confidence, develop new skills and consider careers in forestry and forest science.

One participant, Damyan, shared his experience of the camp:

“From 23rd to 29th July, I had the chance to take part in a rare opportunity especially for someone like me. Accessing nature in the UK can be difficult and expensive, but this camp gave me the chance to stay in the outdoors, completely free of charge.

The camp was run by a group of dedicated facilitators who helped us reconnect with nature and learn about forestry practices. I’ve always been interested in the natural sciences but seeing things in action like someone harvesting and using willow bark made the theory come alive.

I enjoyed being trusted with responsibilities like preparing firewood and managing campfires. It helped me build confidence and feel more capable.

Everyone took away something different from the experience. For me, it was the chance to explore a new place, see new landscapes, and learn about forest management from professionals. I even made some useful contacts that could help me in my future career.

The camp offered a mix of practical and theoretical activities, and the isolation from phone signal gave us a rare chance to disconnect and reflect. The facilitators were passionate and supportive, and their guidance was invaluable.

Overall, I’d recommend the Forestry Youth Camp to anyone who wants to reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and broaden their horizons.”

The organiser of the camp Dr Bid Webb, said: “Forestry is relevant to all young people, whether they realise it yet or not. Forests are at the heart of some of the biggest challenges we face, from climate change to biodiversity loss, and we need a wide range of voices and perspectives to help tackle them. The camp is about opening that door, showing young people that they belong in these conversations and that their ideas and experiences matter.”