Tools Use Training with the Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust and Sandwell College

As part of our Green Roots West Bromwich Cultural Programme, Multistory worked with the Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT) and Sandwell College students for a week of nature conservation training and skills development.

The Tools Use training took place between Monday 13 May and Friday 17 May 2024, at the Centre of The Earth – a purpose-built environmental education centre run by BBCWT. Hosted by Niel Brelsforth (Senior Training Officer) and Jane Grove (Senior Centre of the Earth Development Officer) from BBCWT, students explored a wide range of tools used in wildlife conservation; discussed the importance of handling these tools correctly; learnt the correct methods of cleaning and maintaining tools; and, of course, the fun part, had the opportunity to put the tool use training into practice!⁠

Some of the tools that the students learnt about included: a bow saw, panel saw, wooden mallet, lump hammer, claw hammer and loppers. As part of the training, students also experienced Niel's daily duties first hand, which included: weeding paths, clearing areas, making space for more native plants to be transplanted and repairing a dead hedge.

By the end of the week, alongside developing knowledge around wildlife conservation tool use, the students also learnt the significance of working safely to protect our environment and native species to increase biodiversity and encourage wildlife. It was a lovely week bringing the classroom outside, learning practical skills that are used in wildlife conservation and just having fun together.

Thanks to the BBCWT and Sandwell College for a great week of learning, sunshine and unexpected company in the form of baby newts, goslings and pond skaters!