Topps Education

Topps Education

CSFT bought the Topps Wood site with the aim of enhancing the conservation value of the local environment through tree planting and other habitat creation and management measures. Ownership allows CSFT more flexibility for these developments to take place over time and to create opportunities for community participation and learning through volunteering and engaging local schools in site based activity. This approach will not only enrich the environment but will also improve peoples’ lives and opportunities, through developing an appreciation of the cultural and environmental value of the Carron Valley area.

CSFT and Denny High School, already working in partnership, explored the possibility of developing an educational programme using Topps Wood as a base. There is growing evidence of the value of teaching outdoors, and the advent of ‘A Curriculum for Excellence’ provides further encouragement for schools and environmental organisations to identify opportunities for working together.

Project aims:

• To conserve and enhance the local environment through tree planting and other habitat creation and management measures
• To enable Denny High School pupils to participate in the development and management of Topps Wood, and achieve recognised awards
• To teach participants about the heritage and environmental value of the Carron Valley area at both a local and global scale, and develop a range of new skills
• To interpret the site and site based activity to the wider community of Denny

Project achievements:

• A 7 hectare woodland planted
• Developing a pond and pond dipping area
• Creation of a new path linking to the pond
• Enhancement of meadow areas through wildflower planting
• 2,000 pupil visits
• Contribution to pupil achievement under the four main purposes of ‘A Curriculum for Excellence’
• Raising of participants’ awareness of the heritage and environmental value of the Carron Valley
• Recognition of Flexible Curriculum pupils’ achievement and attainments
• Establishment and management of Topps Wood and associated habitats appropriately

Total cost £88,650 funded by:

CSFT

Falkirk Council

Falkirk Environment Trust  

LEADER

Scottish Natural Heritage