I have truly cherished my time contributing to Teen Rangers at the Berkshire Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust over the past four years — it has undoubtedly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
As someone who is autistic, I often felt disconnected from the noisy, fast-paced world around me, but in the woods, I have found a place where I truly belong, a place where I can wind down.
Teen Rangers gives me the opportunity to step away from the overwhelm and fully immerse myself in nature — a space where I feel a profound sense of peace and connection.
I joined Teen Rangers when I was 13. Initially, I was nervous and unsure if it would be the right fit for me. But I quickly realised I had nothing to worry about.
The moment I stepped into the fresh air of the nature reserve, something clicked. It felt like the trees themselves were whispering, 'Welcome home.' I’ve never felt more accepted by such a warm, supportive group of people, always encouraging us to do more for nature and learn new things.
Each month, we take part in a variety of activities, such as roasting marshmallows over a fire we built ourselves, creating habitats like bug hotels, monitoring wildlife, learning about different animals, and so much more. Every month brings something new, which is what makes Teen Rangers so exciting — you’re always discovering something new about nature.
These hands-on experiences have provided me with valuable knowledge that has deepened my understanding of the world around me. They've also been incredibly useful for my BTEC Animal Care course at college, enhancing both my practical skills and my learning.
My absolute favourite activity is birdwatching. With binoculars in hand, we venture into the woods, listening to the birds and trying to identify them. We’re taught how to distinguish their distinct calls and recognise them by their appearance, turning each walk into a fascinating learning experience.
Birdwatching has not only increased my appreciation for the diversity of wildlife but also fuelled my growing interest in birds. The sense of calm and connection I feel while observing these creatures in their natural habitat is something I’ll always treasure.
One of the best parts of being a Teen Ranger is discovering people around my age who share the same passion for nature. It’s like finding a true sense of belonging within a community. There’s no pressure to be constantly social — sometimes we work quietly, simply listening to the birds or the rustling leaves. And when we do engage in conversation, it’s about the things that matter to us all — wildlife, conservation, and the ways we can make a difference.
I completed my Year 10 work experience at BBOWT, and my time with Teen Rangers inspired me to pursue qualifications through an environmental college. Through this journey, I’ve learned to embrace the way my brain works as a strength. I’m attuned to the smallest details — the subtle shifts in the seasons, the faintest tracks in the mud, the intricate ways birds communicate. My keen eye for detail has allowed me to spot rare species and identifying plants. Instead of feeling out of place, I now feel valued as a Teen Ranger.
Before joining Teen Rangers, I often felt like the world didn’t have a place for me, as though people my age weren't as interested in the outdoors as I was. Now, I know that’s not the case.
Teen Rangers has a place for everyone, and through it, I’ve found my confidence, my passion, and my voice. It’s given me the opportunity to connect with others who share my love for nature, and it’s helped me realise that my unique perspective is something to be proud of.
The experiences, the friendships, and the skills I’ve gained have transformed the way I see myself and the world around me. I now feel empowered, knowing that I can make a difference and that there’s a community where I truly belong.
If you’re thinking about joining teen rangers, do it. You don’t have to be an expert or an extrovert — you just have to care. And if you’re like me — someone who sometimes struggles to find their place — know this: nature will always make room for you.
Allegra, Teen Ranger
Our nature clubs for children and teens
Teen Rangers is a monthly club for 11-17 year olds held at our learning centres across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.
Young Rangers is a similar club for 7-11 year olds.
Find out more about Teen Rangers and Young Rangers
Younger children are invited to join our Nature Tots sessions for children aged 18 months to 4 years, which include wildlife exploration, sensory play, stories and crafts.
