BLOG – Inspiring Young Minds with Groundwork’s Workplace Safari
On Tuesday 4th November 2025, Trafford Ecology Park came alive with curiosity, as students from Lostock School in Stretford arrived for our Workplace Safari Day, a jam packed day exploring the world of green skills, sustainability and environmental careers.
Different Groundwork employees met with the students to share insights on what they do in their work, inspiring the next generation to consider green careers such as:
- Urban Rangers
- Sustainability Consultants
- Energy Advisors
- Community Workers
A Day of Discovery
The day began with a warm welcome and meet-and-greet from Kelly, Green Skills Manager at Groundwork, who outlined the plan for the day. Students quickly settled in, ready for a packed schedule of interactive sessions designed to give them a taste of different careers within the green economy.
Kelly also provided an introduction to Groundwork and our charities mission to build stronger communities and support people and businesses to tackle climate change through practical action.
That was followed by a session with Lou, a Sustainable Business Consultant at Groundwork. She introduced the students to consultancy work and the steps organisations can take towards Net Zero. The students heard about real-world examples of how local businesses are reducing their carbon footprint.
Next, Harley, Groundwork’s Marketing and Communications Lead gave a creative photo workshop, offering insights into how storytelling and media help promote environmental work. Cameras were everywhere as students practiced capturing the perfect shot.
Fran, a Project Lead from Groundwork’s Communities team then brought everyone together for a relaxing craft activity which encourages reflection on nature and wellbeing. This is one of the activities Fran does in the neighbourhoods Groundwork’s works in, supporting people to connect more with nature.
After a short break for snacks and chats, Energy Advisors Vicky & Kennedi ran a practical session on saving energy at home, a favourite among the students, who were eager to share what they’d learned about cutting costs and reducing waste.
Planting An Orchard
Following a well-deserved lunch break, the afternoon belonged to Groundwork’s Urban Rangers, Millhouse & Jon who discussed the importance of habitat restoration for nature and the planet. Following a safety briefing, the students armed themselves with spades and enthusiasm and began planting apple trees that will thrive in the park for years to come.
This hands-on session proved to be one of the Workplace Safari highlights. As one student said:
“My favourite bit of the day is probably when we planted these apple trees because I think it was really fun digging, and the people here are really nice.”
Another pupil shared that they loved exploring during lunchtime:
“We played hide and seek in the forest and explored. It was really fun!”
The joy of discovery extended beyond play. When asked what they had learned, one student reflected thoughtfully:
“I think it’s very important that we save money and try to turn everything off and make sure we’re not wasting water or electricity at home.”
Another added:
“Be smart and think about what you’re doing. If you do something bad, then it could be more money that your parents have to pay, and that’s less money that goes to university and stuff.”
These comments show just how powerfully the day’s lessons about sustainability and responsibility resonated with the group.
Inspiring the Next Generation
For the teachers, the impact of the day was just as clear. One shared:
“The passion and enthusiasm of the presenters is really infectious. The students loved every second, getting stuck in, asking loads of questions, really engaging and interacting.”
They also highlighted the value of hearing from Groundwork staff about their own career journeys:
“The information on the green industries and the different career opportunities that are available, which is a massively growing sector, has been fantastic. Hearing the different routes into the industry has been really aspirational for the students.”
Reflecting and Looking Ahead
The day closed with a group reflection session, where students shared their highlights and considered their next steps. From aspiring rangers and budding environmental consultants to newly inspired eco-warriors, it was clear that the experience had left a lasting impression.
Our Workplace Safari was designed to spark curiosity and show young people that green careers come in many forms, including hands-on conservation to energy advice, creative communications, and community engagement.
Are you a school that would like to work with us to inspire the future generations? Visit our webpage to find out more: