Goodwood education charity marks its 50th birthday
Photograph by Sam Stephenson
A charity that helps connect people with the outdoors in West Sussex is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
The Goodwood Education Trust is an independent environmental education charity operating on the beautiful Goodwood Estate, near Chichester.
It all started in the early 1970’s when an informal centre for environmental studies was established with the co-operation of West Sussex County Council.
Then in 1972 a nature trail for partially-sighted people was created and the original Braille maps and trail notes are still on site.
In 1976, the charity was formally established by the 10th Duke of Richmond and Gordon. The Trust worked closely with local education providers and activities included farming and forestry workshops.
The Estate kindly made available 20 acres of semi-ancient woodland plantation, known as Seeley Copse for educational activities, and a wooden hut provided shelter and storage. A purpose-built, accessible and sustainable Education Centre replaced the wooden hut and formally opened in 2021, with additional funding support from the National Park Authority’s Community Infrastructure Levy. Links with the National Park are strong, including receiving a grant from the South Downs National Park Trust.
Catherine Cannon, Trust Manager, said “The Trust has evolved to be responsive to local educational and community needs and we offer three programmes, which are farm visits for schools, woodland learning and Children in the Community.”
The 11th Duke of Richmond said: “As the Trust celebrates 50 years of environmental education, the focus remains very firmly on connecting children and young people with nature, particularly the under-served and more vulnerable. My father’s vision was very forward thinking, and it’s fitting to recognise his legacy, as we meet the needs of the next generation.”