Preparing students for land-based and conservation careers
Broomfield Hall, DCG’s working estate in the Derwent Valley, equips learners with hands-on experience in land and wildlife management, conservation, ecological surveying and habitat stewardship.
These are essential skills for anyone pursuing careers or further learning in conservation, horticulture, landscaping or and other land-based areas which are increasingly vital amid nationwide efforts to protect and enhance biodiversity.
The role of Broomfield Hall in nature recovery
The importance of this educational focus is underscored by the growth of landscape‑scale conservation and nature‑based solutions work locally and nationally.
Partnering with Wild Solutions and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust
Organisations like Wild Solutions, the ecological consultancy owned by Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT), have been leading the way in delivering evidence‑based habitat restoration, nature‑based solutions and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) services.
BNG is a statutory requirement under the UK Environment Act 2021, mandating that all commercial developments deliver a minimum of 10% net gain for biodiversity.
Wild Solutions goes beyond the legal framework, targeting at least 20% net gain and securing habitats for long‑term ecological benefit—making them an important partner in the region’s nature recovery network.
Paul Foskett, Teacher of Countryside & Arboriculture at Broomfield Hall, commented:
“Nature isn’t an add‑on to what we teach at Broomfield; it’s fundamental. Our students are learning that good land management, food production and environmental responsibility all go hand in hand, and that understanding nature is essential to the future of farming.”
Teaching practical skills for future land managers
Students at Broomfield Hall gain relevant, real‑world skills that align with broader conservation and land‑based learning trends, including species identification, ecological survey techniques, land management and countryside crafts.
This hands‑on approach prepares learners for competitive careers as ecologists, conservation officers, land managers and countryside professionals—roles that are essential in supporting local nature recovery, expanding habitat networks and meeting increasing environmental commitments.
Expanding biodiversity work across DCG sites
There will also be ongoing surveys of DCG’s other sites— The Roundhouse, The Joseph Wright Centre in Derby, and Ilkeston Community College—to explore how more can be done for nature within these very different, much more urban locations.
Building a nature‑positive workforce for the future
In a world facing climate and biodiversity decline, DCG’s commitment to land‑based education ensures that the workforce of tomorrow is equipped to respond not only to employer needs but also to the critical environmental challenges of the 21st century.
DWT also keeps a blog that outlines how they work with Derby College Group to support biodiversity.
