For generations, young people have learnt about ecosystems, habitats and climate science through subjects like Biology and Geography. But now, for the first time, students in England will have the opportunity to study the natural world as a subject in its own right.
The Government has announced the introduction of a new Natural History GCSE, a qualification designed to help students understand nature, biodiversity and conservation through both classroom learning and hands-on experience outdoors.
At the Wainwright Prize, we believe that fostering a connection with nature begins with curiosity. Whether through books, storytelling or education, every opportunity to deepen our understanding of the natural world helps inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. That’s why we’re excited to see nature taking centre stage in the curriculum.
The Natural History GCSE is a new qualification that will explore the relationships between people and the natural world, helping students develop an understanding of the wildlife, habitats and environmental challenges that shape our planet.
Alongside scientific knowledge, the course encourages students to observe, investigate and engage directly with nature, recognising that meaningful learning often happens beyond the classroom.
The course is expected to cover a wide range of topics, including:
Rather than focusing solely on theory, the qualification encourages students to consider how individuals, communities and organisations can help protect and restore nature.
One of the most exciting aspects of the new GCSE is its emphasis on outdoor learning. Students will complete a minimum of 20 hours of fieldwork, giving them the opportunity to study wildlife and habitats in real-world environments. From identifying species and surveying local ecosystems to exploring the biodiversity on their doorstep, the course aims to nurture the kind of observation and curiosity that lies at the heart of natural history. In a world increasingly shaped by screens, spending time outdoors has never felt more valuable.
As the UK faces the twin challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, environmental knowledge has never been more important.
The Natural History GCSE has been developed not only to deepen students’ understanding of nature but also to inspire future careers in conservation, ecology, environmental science, sustainable agriculture and the growing green economy.
Equally important, it encourages something less measurable but just as essential: a lasting relationship with the natural world.
Although the Natural History GCSE has now been announced, there are still a few important steps before students begin studying it. The proposed subject content is currently open to public consultation, giving teachers, conservation organisations, environmental experts and the wider public an opportunity to share their views. Following this, the Government will review the feedback before finalising the course content. Exam boards will then develop detailed specifications and assessments, which will need to go through the usual approval process.
The Government has said it expects the qualification to be first taught from September 2028, alongside the wider rollout of the revised GCSE curriculum. That means today’s primary school pupils could be among the first generation to study Natural History as a GCSE.
Every year, the Wainwright Prize celebrates books that help us notice, understand and care more deeply for the natural world.
From lyrical memoirs and investigative conservation writing to beautifully illustrated books that bring wildlife to life, the stories we champion encourage readers of all ages to see the world differently.
The Children’s Wainwright Prize, in particular, exists to inspire the next generation of nature lovers, recognising books that spark curiosity, empathy and a lifelong appreciation for the living world. Education and storytelling share a common purpose. Both invite us to ask questions, look more closely and better understand the landscapes and species around us. The introduction of the Natural History GCSE is another encouraging step towards building a society that values nature not simply as something to study, but as something to protect.
Whether this qualification inspires a future ecologist, conservationist, writer, illustrator or simply someone who spends more time noticing the wildlife around them, its impact has the potential to extend far beyond the classroom.
The introduction of the Natural History GCSE is not the end of the conversation; it’s the beginning of a new one. At the Wainwright Prize, we’ll be following its development with great interest and continuing to champion the books that help readers of every age notice, understand and care for the natural world.
Because every journey towards protecting nature begins with the same simple act: Paying attention.
If you’re looking to deepen your own connection with the natural world, explore the books celebrated by the Wainwright Prize. From award-winning nature writing to inspiring children’s books and beautifully illustrated works, our longlists and shortlists are filled with stories that encourage us all to look a little closer.