The recent publication “World Orchid Collections 2020” includes the Writhlington Orchid Project
amongst the world’s most significant collections for global Orchid Conservation. The book features
thirty institutions from around the world that are cooperating to halt the extinction of orchids especially
in tropical regions. The chapter on the Writhlington Orchid Project, written by students from the
Mendip Studio School, describes the collection cared for by students from both Writhlington school
and the Mendip Studio School, and their work with communities in tropical countries including
Malaysia and Rwanda.
13 year old student, Lily Jones said “It is really exciting to see our work published along
with the top botanic gardens of the world, and shows that you can make a difference to our planet
through plants.”
18 year old Jess Buckle who completed her A levels at Mendip Studio School and is now studying at
Oxford University is one of the authors. Jess explained “We were asked to write a chapter for the
book by the Committee of the World Orchid Congress and it has been a treat to show that young
people are leading the way with conservation, horticulture and science.”
Students from the orchid project will be hosting a virtual Christmas Orchid Festival on Thursday 3rd
December from 6.30-7.30 and details are available at the projects website www.wsbeorchids.org
