Summer Skills Programme

Student works on a planting bed in a community garden.

Image credit: Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales

Summer Skills Programme

🌞 Ready to Make Summer Count?

Love the outdoors? Thinking about a future in the environment or just want to do something meaningful this summer? Our Summer Skills programme is built just for 16 to 19 year-olds who are finishing school or recently left — and it's packed with unforgettable experiences!

Here’s what you’ll get to do:

🌿 Go Off the Beaten Path Explore exclusive nature reserves (not open to the public!) and learn how our expert teams look after these wild spaces.

🦪 Get Hands-On with Marine Life Join our Marine Recovery team at the Belfast Lough oyster restoration sites. Help bring native oysters back — for real.

🌾 Take Action at Bog Meadows Support public events and volunteer projects at one of Belfast’s most important nature spots. Great for experience, even better for your CV.

📅 When’s It Happening?

8th July – 27th August

Two days a week (plenty of time for summer fun too!)

100% FREE – transport’s sorted, and sessions are led by AccessNI-approved staff.

All we ask? Be ready to show up and get stuck in.

🎉 What’s In It for You?

Gain practical experience in conservation

Meet like-minded people who care about the planet

Build your confidence and leadership skills

Earn the Wild Youth Award – a recognition of your commitment to nature and your community

📝 How to Apply:

Register your interest and fill in a quick and simple application form before 5pm on Thursday 26th June. Full timetable and info will be provided, email Sheila Lyons, Volunteer Coordinator at sheila.lyons@ulsterwildlife.org