Come and join us for a day of rockpooling, exploring coastal ecology, getting creative, relaxing and having a picnic at Cooden Beach.

This FREE session is part of a series of opportunities for young people, aged 16-19 including:

Fun, practical taster days for young people in nature - at Sussex Wildlife Trust reserves and local green spaces and coastal sites

Discover what’s special about nature and wildlife in your area

Gain introductory qualifications that can support pathways into green careers

On this Coastal Taster Day:

Take part in rock pooling and explore coastal ecology

Find out about practical ways to support our coast

Build shelters, relax and get creative

Enjoy a picnic on the beach

Find out about more opportunities with Sussex Wildlife Trust

There is a Woodland Taster Day following this, on Thursday 29th October, at Gillham Wood 11-3pm (during October Half Term). Lunch provided.

Sign up for both if you can!

These tasters are designed to introduce you to what we will be doing on the Coastal Connection and Woodland Discovery course in Feb/March/April 2027. (exact dates and times to be discussed)

The taster days are an opportunity to take part in designing the upcoming course, based on your experiences.

Practical information:

Meeting Point: We will meet at Cooden Beach Station and then walk to the beach together (apprx 10 mins to beach site). Look out for our Sussex Wildlife Trust tshirts.

We will be in touch by email with more information, including our contact details, once you have booked.

Travel support available if needed and food included (you’re also welcome to bring your own)

Accessibility: This event takes place in a natural pebble beach setting. If you have any specific access needs that you would like to discuss, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

How to be prepared:

Please wear clothes suitable for the weather and that you don’t mind getting dirty.

Waterproof layers and a warm layer of clothing are recommended if rain is forecast. You will need suncream and a hat if it is sunny as we will be outside for the whole session. Its always good to have a spare layer with you, just in case the wind picks up or the temperature drops.

We recommend shoes with a grip, such as beach shoes, wellingtons or walking boots if you have them. Trainers are fine - they may get mucky.

Please bring a waterbottle.

Bring food or snacks if you wish, we will provide a picnic lunch.

At most sites there is no facility to leave bags/valuables. We recommend bringing your personal items in a rucksack which can be easily carried with you.

What is provided by Sussex Wildlife Trust?

We will provide all equipment to help you collect and identify your finds - and encourage sharing discoveries with the group. Feel free to bring your own tools if you'd like!

We will show you how to use all tools safely.

A first aider will be available and all volunteers are covered by our insurance when with us.

What if my session is cancelled?

Most activities will go ahead in rain, snow, wind and sometimes even sunshine! You will be informed if your session is unable to go ahead and a new date will be arranged. If you are not contacted, the event will be going ahead as planned.

Cancellation Policy: Please let us know if you are not able to attend with as much notice as possible, so we can offer the space to someone else.

Need more info? Please email Sara at fstraining@sussexwt.org.uk

Description supplied by the event organiser.