Nextdoor Nature Pioneers Programme
Training the next generation of nature pioneers
This course is for anyone passionate about helping their local wildlife, and will help to build the skills knowledge, skills and confidence to organise positive action for nature in a community.
Make a real difference
With lots of plants, animals and wild spaces in decline, nature is in a state of crisis. But if 1 in 4 people take action, we can make a real difference. Imagine living in a neighbourhood where nature thrives, where there is a strong sense of community spirit and where people pull together to help each other and their local wildlife. Many of us would like to see more nature in our local area – and our Pioneers Programme is a great place to start.
About the Programme
This free online course runs over 8 weeks and covers a wide range of topics, from how to engage others in the community to how to identify practical actions for nature. Take a look at our Programme Overview here or scroll down for a full breakdown of what’s covered in each of the programme modules.
Syllabus
This 8-week course requires 1-2 hours of study time per week. The first three modules are released immediately on registration, with the next module becoming available each week thereafter.
After the 8 weeks, you’ll also have the choice to complete 7 additional optional modules to help you continue your learning. You’ll continue to have access to all the modules and resources after course completion so you can refer back to them whenever you need to.
Who is this course for?
Anyone with an interest and passion for helping nature in their local areas. The course is suitable for anyone at any stage of life. No previous experience or knowledge is required to join this free, introductory course.
What will you achieve?
By the end of this course you will be able to…
- identify actions that will make a positive difference for nature in your area
- effectively communicate, consult and engage with your local community
- plan and run community events
- put together funding applications
- understand the basics of health and safety and your responsibilities when organising action in your community
- approach landowners and local authorities and work with them in a meaningful way
“It’s certainly filled me with more confidence to set up a community project. I’m not naturally a leader, so it’s given me the opportunity to gain the skills I need to be in charge and develop my idea for something I can achieve in my community.”
Tammy, Musselburgh
“I love being in nature and have been helping to control Himalayan balsam on a local river, but I wanted to take the next step and build the confidence to instigate a project myself. The Pioneers Programme equipped and inspired me to collaborate – you can do so much more by joining forces with other people!”
Kate, Musselburgh
“I’m quite a shy person; it’s really given me confidence.”
Jane, Livingston
“On the Pioneers Programme, I gained so much from visiting interesting places, like community gardens, and learning more about how nature and wildlife influence mental health. Also useful were the practical pointers on obtaining small grants and other funding, and how to work with other local groups.”
Anna, Granton
“Just being encouraged to engage more with the wider public and that whole networking side has made a big difference. It also made me think about who we were not reaching, from the elderly to those who are less mobile and can’t make meetings or events.”
Cairns, Coalburn
Pioneers Programme Development
Nextdoor Nature was a community engagement project delivered across the UK-wide Wildlife Trusts movement. The aim of Nextdoor Nature was to bring communities together to help nature flourish where they live and work. Thanks to £5 million funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, between 2022-2024, the Nextdoor Nature project provided communities with advice and support to help nature on their doorstep. The Scottish Wildlife Trust delivered the project in Scotland.
The Pioneers Programme was at the heart of Nextdoor Nature in Scotland. Over the two years of the project, four cohorts of participants were supported through this innovative programme, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to organise positive action for nature and improve their neighbourhoods.
Nextdoor Nature was a project from The Wildlife Trusts. We worked with communities to bring people together and give everyone the power to help nature flourish – everywhere. Thanks to £5million funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Nextdoor Nature provided communities with start-up advice and support to help nature on their doorstep, leaving a lasting natural legacy to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. You can find out more about the project here.
