Woodknowledge Wales is proud to announce the launch of the Welsh-language edition of Sitka Spruce the Amazing Timber Tree at this year’s WoodBUILD conference, taking place on 3–4 June 2025
Written by Jenny Bailey and first introduced at WoodBUILD 2024, the Sitka Spruce the Amazing Timber Tree picture book celebrates Sitka spruce as a woodland hero. Thanks to a new partnership between Woodknowledge Wales, the Welsh Books Council, Tinopolis productions, and the author’s own publishing house, the book has now been professionally translated into Welsh—meeting Welsh First standards for use as a language resource in primary schools.
The Welsh edition will be launched alongside a new Welsh-language audio version, and both Welsh and English versions will be sent out to all 1,277 primary schools in Wales, including 39 special schools. Printed using sustainable materials and processes, the dual-language book has been developed as both an educational tool and a celebration of sustainable forestry.
This inspiring initiative has been brought to life thanks to a group of forward-thinking sponsors who believe in the power of storytelling to shape a more sustainable future. From forest managers and timber innovators to industry leaders in construction and consultancy, the project has drawn support from across the built environment. Champions of this bilingual book include Prior and Rickett, Bronwin and Abbey, Confor, BSW, and Morgan Sindall—each playing their part in helping Sitka the Amazing Timber Tree take root in classrooms across Wales. Their backing ensures that every child can explore the wonders of Welsh woodlands through a story that’s as educational as it is enchanting.
“If we want the next generation to build a more sustainable Wales, we need to start with stories that connect them to the land, the trees, and the materials that shape their world,” said Gary Newman, CEO of Woodknowledge Wales. “Sitka Spruce the Amazing Timber Tree is more than just a children’s book—it’s a seed of understanding. Thanks to our sponsors and partners, we’re making sure that seed can grow in every school across the nation, in both English and Welsh.”
“We are thrilled to see this book reach Welsh learners across the country,” said author and publisher, Jenny Bailey. “Sitka Spruce the Amazing Timber Tree tells the story of sustainable timber through the eyes of a tree, and we’re delighted to support schools with a resource that inspires environmental awareness in both of Wales’ languages.”
WoodBUILD 2025 will host the official Welsh launch of the book with copies available to explore at the event.
