Derby Childhood Studies students survey Nottingham­shire parks

Childhood Studies students from the University of Derby will be working with Ashfield District Council this autumn on an evaluation of the play potential of Brierley Forest Park and Huthwaite Welfare Park, Nottinghamshire.

As part of their course work, the students will be talking to local school children and community groups. It is hoped that the results of their work will be available for visitors to see at the Brierley Visitor Centre later this year.

Dr Ruby Oates, Head of Childhood Studies at the University of Derby, said: “The University prides itself on being able to offer real-world learning projects for students to work on. Not only does it give them more sense of purpose, but it gives them the experience of working with local communities.

“It is great that our Childhood Studies students will be working with Ashfield District Council to help improve the experience for those that use the parks.”

Trevor Watson, Service Director for Economy at Ashfield District Council, said: "This work is part of Ashfield District Council's continuing commitment to improving the district’s award winning Green Flag parks and to locality working.

“Brierley Forest Park and Huthwaite Welfare Park provide an ideal location for educational projects. Ashfield District Council welcomes the involvement of the University of Derby."

Councillor Tim Brown, Portfolio Holder for Environment added: “This is a fantastic project which will not only bring some fresh ideas but will also encourage new faces to the park. It is hoped that it will benefit both the students educationally towards their degree, but also help to raise awareness of these wonderful green spaces.”

Once completed, the students’ ideas will be reviewed by the council to see how they can be incorporated into the parks.