The Community Heritage Initiative runs training and information sessions throughout the year.

Whether you are interested in learning more about the countryside and its history, getting involved with some of CHI’s projects or are new to the subject, all of our free sessions are designed to help you develop knowledge, skills and confidence.

The programme which is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Rutland County Council, covers a range of natural history and heritage subjects.  Past topics have included: ‘Identification of Trees,’ ‘Boundaries in the Landscape’, and ‘Flower Folklore.’  Sessions are free and open to the general public.

Sessions run in the daytime and evenings at venues around Leicestershire and Rutland.  Some training sessions for example, those based on learning natural history identification skills, are held outdoors at sites such as local nature reserves and country parks.  Indoor talks are usually held at the Environment and Heritage Resources Centre in Birstall.

All the sessions are run by experts in natural history and heritage and are designed to meet a range of interests – from beginner to those who have some knowledge of the subject.

If you are a member of a local heritage group or thinking of setting one up, the CHI training sessions also cover topics such as ‘Leading a Guided Walk’, ‘Developing Your Group’ and ‘Publicity and Promotion’.

There are many opportunities to learn about the different aspects of local heritage and natural history.  The CHI information and training programme aims to give individuals skills and knowledge in a range of areas so that they have the confidence to go and explore their local countryside and parish.

For more information on the programme, or to book a place contact the CHI.