Students launch new wildlife conservation group at Oaklands College.

Students at Oaklands College have formed the Oaklands Wildlife Society (O.W.L.S) to support campus biodiversity through hands-on conservation, education and volunteering, and the group is open to learners from all courses.

Students at Oaklands College have formed a new group called the Oaklands Wildlife Society (O.W.L.S) to support local biodiversity. The society brings together students and staff from the college's St Albans and Welwyn Garden City campuses. It aims to make conservation practical and accessible through hands-on work, education and campaigns. The group is open to learners from all courses and activities are shaped by its members. Key facts: - O.W.L.S was set up at Oaklands College and includes students and staff across the college's campuses. - The society's stated principles are monitoring and increasing campus biodiversity, educating the college community about environmental issues, and reducing Oaklands' carbon footprint through long-term sustainable actions. - Members are volunteering with Haven Wildlife Rescue and gaining experience in animal care and rehabilitation. - The group held its first outdoor session setting up camera traps in the college orchard, conducting bird listening surveys and identifying fungi, and members found an active bee hotel on campus. - The society follows wider regional projects, noting the recent release of 100 water voles into a river near Wheathampstead by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. Summary: The society provides students with practical conservation experience and contributes to Oaklands College's wider sustainability ambitions. Undetermined at this time.