Partners unite in Mansfield to highlight wildfire prevention education project
Key partners from across Nottinghamshire came together at Oaktree Heathland in Mansfield, to showcase collaborative work to protect and enhance the local environment, while raising awareness of wildfire risks.
The official launch event, in June 17, was attended by both television and radio crews, along with representatives from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS), including a fire appliance from Mansfield Fire Station and the NFRS’s specialist off-road wildfire misting unit based at Tuxford.
They gave a demonstration highlighting the importance of preparedness and rapid response in protecting vulnerable heathland areas.
The occasion brought together a strong partnership group supporting the Heathland Fire Prevention Education Project, a significant initiative running initially until March 2028.
The project will reach more than 3,000 young people and their families across Mansfield and surrounding areas, delivering engaging education, creative activities and community action focused on fire safety and heathland conservation.
Attendees at the launch event included Dianne Holmes, head of curriculum strategy and partnerships for ATTFE College, Carol Hallam, community engagement and learning lead at ATTFE College, Erin Exposito, community conservation officer at The Sherwood Forest Trust, Richard Crisp, commercial development executive from Mansfield Building Society, who are a funder of the project, and Natasha Neale, community engagement manager at NFRS.
This important initiative aims to reduce deliberate and accidental fires on priority heathland sites by Increasing awareness of heathlands, their ecological importance and the risks posed by fire, strengthening relationships between schools, communities and emergency services whilst supporting long-term conservation through volunteering and community engagement.
Education sits at the heart of the project, led by ATTFE College in Sutton, with delivery being developed in partnership with Sherwood Forest Trust, NFRS and Nottinghamshire Police to ensure a joined-up and impactful approach.
The programme will combine classroom learning with practical, outdoor experience to deepen understanding and inspire lasting behaviour change.
Curriculum-linked visits to heathland sites will involve hands-on activities such as wildlife identification, litter picking, planting, and heritage interpretation, in collaboration with site managers and landowners.
Carol Hallam said: “This project is a fantastic example of how collaboration can deliver real benefits for both learners and the local environment.
"Over the project period, our students and participants will be directly involved in conservation activities, learning practical skills whilst helping to protect an important local habitat.”
Helen Sullivan, chief executive of Sherwood Forest Trust, added: “Heathlands are incredibly important but fragile ecosystems.
"This project not only helps restore and protect the landscape but also ensures that more people understand their value and how their actions can help safeguard them for the future.”
Richard Crisp commented: “We are proud to support a project that brings together education, conservation, and community engagement.
"Alongside The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this investment will help create a lasting legacy for both the environment and local communities.”
Natasha Neale said: “Education is a vital tool in preventing fires.
"By working with young people and communities, we can raise awareness of the risks and encourage safer behaviours, helping to protect both people and our natural spaces.”
NFRS also demonstrated their specialist wildfire response capability using their misting unit during the event.