Oaklands College Launches New Student Led Conservation Society: O.W.L.S (Oaklands Wildlife Society)

Oaklands College is excited to announce the launch of a brand-new student and staff-led initiative, the Oaklands Wildlife Society (O.W.L.S). Created for those passionate about protecting the natural world, the society aims to raise awareness of environmental issues through educational activities, practical conservation work, and on-campus campaigns.

The society is welcoming ideas, suggestions, and involvement from everyone across the college community. In partnership with Haven Wildlife Rescue, members have already begun volunteering to support local wildlife care, giving students hands-on experience in conservation efforts.

O.W.L.S recently held its first outdoor activity, where students placed camera traps around the college orchard, carried out bird listening exercises, and identified fungi on site. Members also discovered an active bee hotel, demonstrating the thriving wildlife present on campus. The group has been keeping up with regional conservation news as well, including the recent release of 100 water voles into a river near Wheathampstead by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Mission Statement
The society’s mission focuses on three key pillars:

• Monitor, Increase, Conserve: Track native fauna and flora on campus, conserve endangered species, and increase biodiversity.

• Educate, Inspire, Up-to-Date: Inform students and staff across all courses about environmental issues and sustainable practices.

• Reduce, Implement: Lower the college’s carbon footprint and implement long-term sustainable changes.

Through O.W.L.S, students gain valuable experience in environmental stewardship while contributing to Oaklands College’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement.