Generation Wild
Creating lasting and meaningful connections with nature through storytelling and adventure.
Why was the project developed?
Evidence shows that connecting with nature makes children feel happier, increases their self-esteem and improves their behaviour as well as their physical and mental health.
Children from underserved communities often have fewer opportunities to connect with nature. Through Generation Wild, we work with schools, children and families in these communities to inspire the next generation of nature lovers.
75% of UK children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates.
What do we mean by connecting with nature?
Connecting with nature involves more than simply spending time in natural environments. In order to gain maximum benefit, people need to interact directly with the environment and wildlife around them.
All of the activities in Generation Wild are designed to connect people with nature through five pathways identified by the University of Derby: senses, emotion, compassion, meaning and beauty.
18% of children from the most deprived areas never visit natural spaces.
Why wetlands? Why WWT?
Research shows that blue spaces have significant benefits for people’s mental health. Our wetland centres provide the perfect start for schools and families wanting to explore nature. They are the ideal stepping stone from visitor attraction to nature reserve.
The Generation Wild programme was built in partnership with production company Stand + Stare, who brought together a team of theatrical producers, creative technologists and puppeteers to offer a truly unique and unforgettable immersive experience.
Children and their families find themselves transported by a magical narrative as they meet Ava, a part-bird, part-human creature in a giant nest. Can they help her to find her family, fulfil her destiny and unlock some of nature’s wildest secrets along the way?
Find out more
Empowering teachers and families
If we are to reconnect children with nature, we can’t act alone.
It is children’s teachers, families and communities who are best able to facilitate a long-term connection with the natural world. Generation Wild supports teachers and family members as they promote a life-long love of nature.
Schools as local community hubs
Generation Wild reaches out to children and families in disadvantaged communities through their local schools. Eligibility is based on the percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals. This ensures that we reach those most in need.
What’s on offer?
- A free school visit (suitable for ages 5-11) to one of our wetland centres (including free transport)
- A free family visit for every participating child and their family1
- School and family access to a website containing nature-connection activities for every season
- Curriculum resource packs with activities linking to the project
- Specially-designed certificates and badges for the children
- A chance to win up to £500 towards improving outdoor learning
1 Free entry for 2 adults and their children.
Impact of the programme
By August 2026, Generation Wild will have connected nearly 100,000 children and families to nature across England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, improving well-being and increasing care and concern for nature.
The best way to sum up the impact of Generation Wild is through the words of the children themselves. Here is an animation with heartfelt direct quotes from children and teachers that have participated in the programme:
Generation Wild has already won three prestigious awards.
- Gold Award in the education category of the British and Irish Association for Zoos and Aquariums Awards.
- Best contribution towards transforming nature connection in the Outdoor Recreation Network Awards.
- Highly commended in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion category of the Green Gown Awards.
Partners and funders
Generation Wild has been funded through a long-term funding partner with additional funding by Moto in the community and the ScottishPower Foundation.
The on-site experiences were developed in partnership with the interactive design studio Stand and Stare. The project website at www.generationwild.org.uk was produced by Fieldwork and evaluation of the project conducted in partnership with Cardiff University.
