Using the Medlock Valley to Inspire the Next Generation of Nature Enthusiasts
The Medlock Valley Species Survival Project was not just about protecting habitats, it was about building lasting connections between local communities and the natural world on their doorstep, with a focus on children and young people. That’s why our team worked with local schools, whose pupils often live within walking distance of the Medlock Valley, hosting activities which create a deeper appreciation and connection with nature.
The project partnered with five primary and secondary schools, helping students to engage with the Medlock Valley in creative and meaningful ways. Here’s a few of the activities which took place:
Cannon Burrows Primary School, Ashton
With direct access from the school grounds to a brook in the Medlock Valley, Cannon Burrows was an obvious partner to engage with on the restoration project. However, their outdoor space had become incredibly overgrown and was now inaccessible, limiting its use for pupils.
The Groundwork team helped organise a clean-up event in November 2024, working with a corporate partner, Razor Blue. More than 10 volunteers worked with our Urban Rangers to clear the area of overgrowth, making it a safe space where pupils could learn and play.
Outcomes:
- The school now regularly use their outdoor space in the river valley for forest school activities.
- Maintenance of the space is now manageable by the school.
- The enhancements improve pupils’ access to nature and help embed the importance of environmental care into daily school life.
Laurus Ryecroft Secondary School
In June 2025 we worked with over 100 year 7 geography students at Laurus Ryecroft school. This full day of activity in the Medlock Valley was designed in partnership with teaching staff so that the sessions linked in with the national curriculum. Sessions covered:
- River history and mapping
- Flooding and water quality testing
- Field-based geography learning in a real-world context
By bringing students into the valley, the project aimed to create long-term guardians for local nature, building pride and responsibility in the landscape they call home.
Following on from a successful day, the teachers have stated that they’ll be bringing the children back to the river regularly so they can keep building on their environmental knowledge while connecting with nature.
Propps Hall Primary School
Groundwork’s Community Engagement Lead, Fran began working with Propps Hall after arranging a guided visit to the river, providing students with the chance to take part in water testing and learn more about the species who lived there.
She was then invited to an upcoming Careers Fair at the school, where she shared insights about careers in the environmental sector to pupils in years 4 and 5.
Upon returning to the school for the Careers Fair, Fran met with a girl who had joined her on the guided walk a few weeks back who commented:
“I’d never been there [Medlock Valley] before, but now I take my dog there with my family all the time.”
A great example of how engaging with young people can have a ripple effect within the wider community.
Poster Competition: Celebrating Nature Through Art
In Spring 2025 we invited students from Rushcroft Primary, Heywon Zion, Propps Hall, and a local nursery to take part in a poster competition themed around “Your Favourite Thing in Nature.”
Over 130 entries were received, with some fantastic depictions which included nesting blue tits, baby spring animals, bees and butterflies and flower-filled meadows.
The diversity of entries showcased the appreciation and the emotional connection young people have with the natural world, reinforced the idea that children not only notice nature – they value it deeply.
This project has been made possible thanks to funding from the UK Government’s Species Survival Fund.
