On Tuesday 15^th August 2023 at mid-morning, a group of young carers assembled at the Great Fen's Countryside Centre, on the outskirts of Ramsey Heights. A break in the English weather provided some welcome sunshine. At the start of the day the group did not know each other. The programme started with an introductory question and answer session exploring which animal species live on the site. We learned that common visitors include Chinese water deer and great crested newts but no flamingos! We also learnt to identify hemlock, a wild poisonous plant that grows on the site.

Next stop was exploring the site, looking at lots of bugs, meeting lots of animals and exploring lots of ponds. We saw many dragonflies and were fortunate to see the protected newts in their natural habitat. With the help of our experienced hosts from the Wildlife Trust we heard and saw some of the birds that live on the site. We also tracked where some of the larger animals had made paths in the undergrowth to get to the water.

After packed lunches had been consumed, the group enjoyed tree climbing and building an extensive den using fallen timbers. It was clear that friendships were being forged throughout the day and through the experiences provided in nature's playground. The group also had the opportunity to squash wild fruit to decorate nature bunting before getting ready to go home.

As we dropped some of the group home in the minibus, energy levels remained high. After the final farewells it was clear that firm friendships had been made. Before I'd even reached home, I had already received this lovely message from a parent:

Luke had a fantastic time! He has been telling me all about it since he got back. Thank you for taking him. 

Thank you to the Wildlife Trust for hosting our fun Transitions Day!

Alison Chaves, Communities and Education Officer (Peatland Progress) said, "We are thrilled to hear that the young people had such a wonderful time with us in the Great Fen! It’s so fantastic that Centre 33 recognised the potential of the site here at Ramsey Heights to encourage the young people, in their group, to get outdoors, connect with nature and ultimately, improve their mental health and wellbeing. It was an honour to facilitate this special day out and all of us here wish them well in their transition to secondary school. We look forward to working with Centre 33 again in the future.''

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Centre 33 exists to help every young person in Cambridgeshire fulfil your potential. We support and empower you to overcome your problems through a range of free and confidential services.

We offer free counselling and wellbeing support, information on sexual health, housing, budgeting and also a young carers’ project. We run out of 5 main centres over 6 days a week and work with 1000’s of young people in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough every year.