Growing Together: WELLIES Nature Project
As the WELLIES Nature Project has progressed, weeks four to six have marked a meaningful shift – moving from exploration and learning, into reflection, confidence-building, and planning what comes next together.
These weeks have shown how spending time in nature, learning new skills, and connecting with others can support wellbeing in powerful and lasting ways.
Weeks 4–5: Learning, Creativity, and Connection with Nature
Weeks four and five focused on deepening understanding of the natural world through hands-on learning and creative exploration.
Participants explored topics such as hedgerows, native plants, fungi, wildlife, and soil health, using nature journaling to capture ideas through drawing, writing, collage, and reflection. Sessions were calm and inclusive, allowing everyone to take part at their own pace.
Week five placed a particular focus on soil health, encouraging participants to look closely at what lies beneath our feet. Soil samples from different environments were examined for texture, colour, and structure, helping participants understand soil as a living system that supports plants, wildlife, and people.
Alongside learning, practical activities such as caring for raised beds and creative sessions inspired by fungi helped reinforce how everything in nature is connected.
Week 6: Reflection, Feedback, and the Learner Forum
Week six brought participants together for a learner forum, creating space to reflect on the previous weeks and share honest feedback about their experiences.
Participants spoke openly about how attending WELLIES has supported their:
- Emotional wellbeing – feeling calmer, more positive, and proud of showing up
- Physical wellbeing – fresh air, gentle movement, improved routines, and better sleep
- Social wellbeing – feeling less isolated, building real connections, and developing a sense of belonging
- Environmental awareness – increased knowledge of soil health, fungi, pond life, hedgerows, and caring for shared spaces
Themes such as kindness, routine, shared meals, teamwork, and learning together were repeatedly highlighted. Many participants described feeling accepted, understood, and more confident as a result of being part of the group.
The session also looked forward, with participants helping to shape future activities — reinforcing WELLIES’ commitment to being learner-led, inclusive, and responsive.
Week 7: A Warm Welcome and British Bugs & Pollinators
Week seven marks the start of the next phase of the project and welcomes new and returning participants. If you would like to join us visit: Get Involved | The WELLIES Project
As we move in to week 7 of our Lottery funded project here is a little look at what it includes:
- Welcome and introductions
- Group agreements and check-ins
- Nature quiz and journaling focused on British bugs and pollinators
- Woodshed activities creating bird feeders and hedgehog houses
- Bug house design work linked to our open day and number trail (ongoing)
The session offers a gentle introduction to the programme through discussion, creativity, and practical making.
What’s Coming Up Next (Weeks 8–9)
Week 8 – British Birds
Participants will explore British birds through:
- Nature quizzes and journaling
- Bird-themed crafts, including handmade bookmarks
- Big Garden Bird Watch predictions
- Creative photography focusing on water reflections
- Woodshed sessions preparing bird feeders
Week 9 – Big Garden Bird Watch
This week connects participants to a national citizen-science initiative:
- Taking part in the Big Garden Bird Watch
- Journaling and discussion on threats to birds and how we can help
- Sharing and presenting findings
- Group discussion on birdwatching and its impact on physical and emotional wellbeing
- Nature-based craft using acorn log slices and pyrography
Who Is the WELLIES Nature Project For?
The WELLIES Nature Project is open to Derbyshire residents who would benefit from:
- Spending time in nature
- Gentle, hands-on activities
- Creative learning
- Social connection and routine
Through learning, reflection, and shared experiences, WELLIES continues to support people to grow in confidence, wellbeing, and connection — with nature and with one another.