Nature Chronicles ***ONLY CAMPING AVAILABLE***

Monday 26th August - Friday 30th August 2024

Space is available on this event

This week will be led by Christina Ravinet with some additional special guests.

From spotting birds at dawn to detecting bats at dusk, this week is a chance to reconnect with nature and find the wild that is all around us. Throughout the week, we'll be chronicling our discoveries in our very own nature journals. Whether you prefer to draw, note down or simply mentally document your finds, there is a nature diary to suit everyone. As well as delving into the wildlife and plant life that Othona has to offer, there'll be opportunities to take part in arts and crafts activities, explore the grounds and seek solace in downtime.

At the beginning of the week, we'll be joined by Lauren Cook, a research scientist and artist. Lauren will be leading a nature draw along session, equipping you with skills to help you get started with your nature journal. Wildlife workshops will include a coastal ecology session with marine biologist Malcolm Hardy, a bird walk with ornithologist Alice Marlow and a bat walk with Christina. The week will also be peppered with opportunities to take part in nature crafts and to take time out in the beautiful grounds of Othona.

Christina has been working in science education and communication since 2015. Previously a secondary science teacher, she now delivers outreach workshops as a Science Educator at the Francis Crick Institute. She also spent 1.5 years as the Deputy Manager of Growing Together, a therapeutic gardening project, run by Trust Links, a local mental health charity. Christina's upbringing near the woodland and coastal reserves of South Essex ignited a passion for nature from a young age; her particular love for bats, however, began later in life during an encounter on a university field trip. Christina volunteers for the Essex Bat Group, leading bat talks and walks, and takes part in various other nature activities and volunteering.< 

Arrivals: from 3pm Monday - first meal is dinner at 7pm

Departures: Friday morning 11am

Cost: We have two rates for adults £200 (Basic Rate) or £250 (*Benefactor Rate), If you are able to afford the Benefactor rate this helps to support the work of Othona and enables us to provide bursaries to support those who cannot afford to come. Normal child rates apply (Child Rates), if you are coming with two or more children then the eldest goes free. We may be able to offer a bursary if needed. Please contact us to find out more.

*(Find out about our Benefactor Rate)