A nature-based learning project in Ayr has been shortlisted in RSPB Scotland’s 10th anniversary Nature of Scotland Awards.
Little Acorns CIC, based in Auchincruive in Ayr, are in the running for the community initiative award.
The honours, co-sponsored by NatureScot, recognise the individuals and organisations making a difference in their local communities, businesses and schools to support Scotland’s wildlife and special places.
Little Acorns have revived an old underused arboretum on the Auchincruive Estate to develop a forest school, utilising the great outdoors with a programme full of nature-based activities and holistic learning for the community.
Facilities on site include a composting toilet, fire circle, woodworking area, wildflower meadow, vegetable garden, mud kitchen and yurt.
And business is said to be booming with activities including nature clubs for youngsters aged 5 to 12, parent and toddler groups, bushcraft workshops, support groups for adults and regular seasonal festival celebrations.
Little Acorns managing director Emily Hamalainen said: “We built the forest school site in response to a growing need for quality nature based and holistic learning, which then grew exponentially once the pandemic hit.
“We welcomed the first participants to our Auchincruive site from summer 2019 – it’s been booming ever since with over 250 children and families supported each week through our unique nature-based learning programmes and activities.
“It’s been hard work and thoroughly rewarding in equal measure with all the staff here at Little Acorns super dedicated and passionate about the power of nature and holistic learning.
“Being nominated for the RSPB community initiative award makes all the hard work worth it.”
Anne McCall, director of RSPB Scotland, said: “The last 18 months have reignited many people’s love for nature, highlighting its importance to all aspects of our lives – be it our health, the economy, or wellbeing.
“We’ve seen outstanding examples from community work and local dog walkers to businesses and schools making a fundamental change to their practices, for the benefit of our environment.
“Our judges will not have an easy job whittling this down to just nine winners.”
This year will also see a special 10th anniversary accolade for nature champions of the decade, which will be decided by a public vote from a selection of previous winners from the last 10 years.
Francesca Osowska, chief executive of awards co-sponsor NatureScot, added: “We’re proud to support the awards, and we are particularly excited this year to be sponsoring the new nature champions of the decade category.”
Fifty-two initiatives from across Scotland have been shortlisted across nine categories, and winners will be announced at a virtual ceremony on Wednesday, November 17.
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