Woodland Planning for Sustainability at Westonbirt Arboretum, KS3

Sustainability programme aimed at KS3

Updated 15th January 2024

Suitable for KS3, March - November

Key concepts

Sustainability, forest management, conservation, ecosystem services, tourism.

Learning outcomes

  • name a selection of economic activities associated with trees, woodlands and forests.
  • explain the importance of trees and forest to wildlife and global ecosystems.
  • understand how human activities can impact on the natural environment.
  • understand a range of techniques involved in the sustainable management of the arboretum.
  • suggest ways to manage woodlands sustainably and justify their choices.

Activities

Introduction - class discussion about the importance of trees for people, wildlife and global ecosystems.

Westonbirt's wildlife - explore the different ecological layers for signs of wildlife.

Ecological impacts - considering the impacts of different activities and visitors to the arboretum.  How can activities be managed sustainably?

Sustainability search - find objects and discuss how each is linked to sustainable management.

Woodland design - design and build a model of a sustainable woodland for people, wildlife and timber from natural objects.