What could participants expect?
Growing Words was a gentle, creative workshop series that explored how connecting with nature can support personal wellbeing, strengthen our relationships with others, and deepen our care for the planet.
Rooted in the idea that we are part of nature, not separate from it, the programme used poetry as a way of noticing, slowing down, and reconnecting – both inwardly and outwardly.
The sessions were designed to help participants feel more relaxed, restored, and energised through time spent noticing and connecting with the natural world. We explored different ways of relating to nature, through sensory contact, noticing beauty, emotional response, care and compassion, and reflecting on meaning.
Across the series, we drew on creative writing, poetry, nature-based practices, and playful exercises inspired by wellbeing-focused approaches to nature connection. You didn’t need to be a nature expert or an experienced writer. Curiosity is more important than confidence.
The sessions were:
- creative and playful
- reflective but not therapy
- welcoming, inclusive, and trauma-aware
- designed to build trust, confidence, and connection over time
The workshop approach was informed by research from the University of Derby and wellbeing-focused nature connection practices adapted by NatureWell Academy.
Who was it for?
This programme was for adults who:
- wanted to develop a deeper, more meaningful relationship with nature
- enjoyed (or were curious about) poetry and creative writing
- may have felt disconnected from nature, unsure outdoors, or lacking confidence in these spaces
- were interested in wellbeing, creativity, and community
No prior writing experience was needed. All abilities and backgrounds were welcome.
What was it?
9 May & 6 June — Indoor workshops (3 hours each)
Held at Nottingham City Library, the sessions included:
- reading and discussing nature-focused poetry by a range of poets
- guided writing exercises and prompts
- simple nature-connection practices you can return to in everyday life
- short, supported visits into the Green Heart park to write outdoors
- grounding and noticing exercises, that allowed participants to engage with the surroundings more deeply
4 July — Full-day field trip (6 hours)
The final session was a relaxed, guided field trip to Colwick Woods, travelling together from Nottingham City Library.
The day included:
- slow walks and sensory noticing
- grounding and noticing exercises, that allowed participants to engage with the surroundings more deeply
- outdoor writing activities
- time for reflection, sharing, and rest
- space to bring together everything explored across the programme
We started and finish at the library to support shared travel and accessibility.
Commitment & group size
- Participants were expected to attend all three sessions, as the programme builded gradually and relied on group trust and continuity
- Participants received gentle practices to take home, helping them embed nature connection and creative reflection into daily life
Growing Words was designed to be a way to build small, meaningful habits for wellbeing, for creativity, and for reconnecting with the natural world and each other.
When was it?
- Saturday 9th May – 1pm – 4pm
- Saturday 6th June – 1pm – 4pm
- Saturday 4th July – 10am – 4pm (field trip)
Resources available
- Travel expenses available (Robin Hood ticket)
- Notebook and pen provided
- Refreshments provided
Meet the facilitator
Camille McCawley – Poet and Nature Based Facilitator
Camille McCawley is a poet and facilitator based in Derby, whose work focuses on nature, wellbeing, and creativity. She works for Plantlife International charity, supporting people to connect with and care for the natural world through community programmes and partnerships.
She was a Derby Poetry Festival Associate Poet and has led creative nature workshops with Nottingham Poetry Festival and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. Camille is an accredited nature connection facilitator, a member of GOBS Collective, and co-hosts the monthly poetry event Poetry Praise Sandwich.
Want to attend?
Information pack
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have experience in poetry or creative writing?
I don’t feel very confident in nature, is this still for me?
What do you mean by “grounding” or “nature-connection” practices?
Do I have to share my writing with the group?
What will the field trip involve?
The day will include slow walks, time to pause and notice the environment, and gentle outdoor writing activities. We’ll take everything at a steady pace, with plenty of opportunities to rest, reflect, and take part in your own way.
What about access and physical requirements?
Colwick Woods is a natural environment with uneven, hilly, and sometimes muddy terrain. We’ll move at a slow, supportive pace, and you are always welcome to engage in a way that feels right for you.
If you have any access needs or concerns, please let us know when applying and we’ll do our best to support you.
What should I bring?
For the outdoor session, please wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for uneven or muddy ground, and bring weather-appropriate layers. We’ll still go ahead in light rain, but sessions will be adapted or rescheduled in the case of severe weather.
Will food and refreshments be provided?
Will travel costs be covered?
Do I need to attend all three sessions?
Is this a wellbeing or therapy session?
What if I feel anxious about attending?
How do I apply?
When will I hear if I’ve got a place?
We have 15 places available for this programme. Keeping the group small helps us create a gentle, welcoming, and supportive space, with plenty of opportunity for everyone to take part and share if they wish.
What happens after the programme ends?
Find out More
Curious about the Nature Poet Laureate programme? Find out more here.
If you have questions about the Growing Words workshops get in touch with Programme Co-ordinator Claire Bradnam.