Even in a city such as London, there are still places where it is possible to escape into nature. One such place is Sutton Ecology Centre (SEC), a designated Local Nature Reserve based in Carshalton in Surrey. The Centre, opened in 1989 by David Bellamy, is home to a range of wildlife habitats, including a sensory garden and woodland. It’s an excellent place for a stroll, or to find out about nature,  composting, organic and wildlife gardening. 

SEC provides environmental education to the community from Sutton and the surrounding area, as well as training for adults and community groups and those with special educational needs and learning difficulties. The Centre has two staff members dedicated to teaching, and can teach children a wide range of activities from key stages 1 to 3. Through its teaching activities, the Centre aims to encourage the community to lead a more sustainable lifestyle – as they teach over 13,000 people a year, it is hoped this has an impact!

The local community is positively encouraged to get involved with SEC. As well as organic allotments available for use by community members, the Centre offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities. These range from grounds work to getting involved in the educational activities. The Centre also offers work experience and voluntary placements to the Youth Offending Team, Children in care and adults with special needs. They can also provide ‘Environmentally Friendly’ birthday parties – perfect if you’re looking for something different to do for your child’s birthday!

Case study issued in November 2005