A group of MSc Biodiversity Conservation students from Hartpury University recently visited Longney Orchard, a site managed by the Gloucestershire Orchard Trust, as part of their practical learning experience and to celebrate National Tree Week.
This remarkable orchard, home to two ancient traditional orchards and over 200 veteran trees, provides vital habitats for countless species, supporting an impressive biodiversity that includes over 85 recorded bird species.
During their visit, the students engaged in hands-on ecological research, sampling soil invertebrates and nutrients, conducting invertebrate sweep netting, and performing tree bashing surveys (no trees were harmed although falling apples did prove to be an occupational hazard during the session). They also recorded the diversity of plant species in ground flora, gaining valuable insights into the ecological significance of traditional orchards.
Beyond their studies, the students enjoyed the chance to learn about the community-centred efforts that underpin the management of Longney Orchard. The Gloucestershire Orchard Trust plays a crucial role in preserving this living landscape, ensuring it benefits both wildlife and people. Students were even treated to a taste of the orchard’s diverse apple varieties, including local heritage types, which proved to as delightful as they were educational.
Lauren Hopkins, a student studying MSc Biodiversity Conservation, said: “From my visit to Longney Orchard, I felt a connection to the land and discovered a little haven that is located on the outskirts of Gloucester. It reminded me of my overall goal to preserve the wild spaces that stood long before me. Spaces like these that are rare and ancient are so difficult to replicate. With such a range of species that benefit from the mosaic of tree varieties, it’s a reality that once they are lost, they are never to be the same. A simple act of picking fresh apples to use in an apple pie on a frosty winter day reminded me of the simple pleasures in life that will be lost if not protected.”
Dr Lucy Garrett, Lecturer in Ecology and Conservation at Hartpury University, said: “The visit to Longney Orchard was an incredible opportunity for our students to gain hands-on experience in biodiversity conservation while exploring the rich ecological value of traditional orchards. This partnership with the Gloucestershire Orchard Trust holds great promise for future research and skill development, fostering a deeper understanding of the connection between people, wildlife, and the environment.”
Hartpury University recently announced that a student-led project to create Hartpury Cider from the apples in its own on-site orchard has been a success. Hartpury Cider is now served on tap at the 4ED Hartpury Stadium and in the Legends bar.
Student visits and projects like this help to bring learning to life, reflected in accolades including the triple Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. Hartpury University also ranks 6th in the UK for Teaching Quality, according to The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide for 2025.
