At the core of CHEXS’ approach is the belief that environmental action is inseparable from community wellbeing. Their Growth Programme—a structured 30-week journey—engages over 500 young people annually in outdoor learning, environmental stewardship, and leadership development. Crucially, the programme is not a bolt-on initiative; it is central to the charity’s identity. Activities such as park restoration, habitat protection, and sustainable crop-growing are integrated with coaching, teamwork, and behaviour-change goals, creating a deeply holistic model of social and environmental growth. 
 
CHEXS’ commitment to sustainable best practice is evident at every level. Through the Community Habitat Project, young people work alongside park rangers in spaces like Lee Valley and Cedars Park, removing invasive species, planting flora, and building natural habitats—all while developing environmental awareness and resilience. The charity’s Grow Competition, in collaboration with local nurseries, teaches children to grow food sustainably, addressing issues of food security, biodiversity, and climate education. Every willow sculpture or repurposed project component is a statement: creativity and conservation go hand-in-hand. 
 
In the last 12 months alone, CHEXS has made exceptional strides: 
• 83% of young people reported improved teamwork skills—essential for environmental collaboration. 
• 81% gained confidence and resilience, linking mental health and ecological engagement. 
• 74% showed better behaviour at home, demonstrating the social ripple effects of environmental education. 
• CHEXS has expanded its reach through after-school and holiday provision, ensuring green learning continues year-round. 
• Its online engagement has topped 20,000 views, amplifying the message of youth-led sustainability. 
• Partnerships with local schools, businesses, and environmental bodies have flourished, building a community-wide ecosystem of green action. 
 
The charity also harnesses technology with purpose. Their digital surveys and tablet-based feedback systems have eliminated paper waste while improving data collection. Impact data is shared via newsletters and digital media, creating transparency, engagement, and continuous improvement. The in-house database tracks individual progress across sustainability metrics, offering one of the most advanced data-led models in the sector. 
 
Looking ahead, CHEXS plans to transition to an electric minibus, extend its Grow programme to new regions, and expand green-space provision during school holidays. These are not token gestures; they are carefully planned steps that reflect a long-term strategy for environmental innovation grounded in youth empowerment. 
 
CHEXS doesn’t just teach young people about sustainability—it helps them live it. By cultivating green skills, building ecological literacy, and forging lifelong connections with nature, CHEXS is not only helping Hertfordshire grow greener—it’s seeding change for generations to come.