Trust supports Wales Outdoor Learning Week

New Trust resources help celebrate nature connection in Wales during Wales Outdoor Learning Week (28 March - 3 April 2022). 

People from all corners of Wales are encouraged to take part in this year's Wales Outdoor Learning Week – either by attending one of the organised events, or simply by taking a walk in their local woodland, a toddle along a beach, or a stretch in the park.

First held in 2019, the Week was created by the Wales Council for Outdoor Learning to encourage and inspire teachers, learning groups and families across Wales to embed outdoor learning within school and family life and reap its many benefits.   

Chair of the Wales Council for Outdoor Learning is our Wales-based John Muir Trust England and Wales Manager, Phil Stubbington. He said: “Celebrating wild places and our connection to (and value for) nature is more vital than ever; something that Is engrained into the fabric and culture of this amazing nation.

“Wales Outdoor Learning Week provides an exciting and unique platform to raise awareness for the activity that goes on year round to get outside, connect with nature and take action for the environment, celebrate the groups, teachers, leaders, organisations and individuals that make it happen as well as shine a spotlight on the the importance of outdoor learning and connection to nature with Welsh Government, policy makers and key agendas across Wales”.

• With this in mind the Trust has designed a special activity worksheet to encourage outdoor learning - available in English and Cymraeg.

Nature is good for us

Sue Williams, NRW Team Leader for Health, Education and Natural Resources said: “Evidence shows that connecting with nature is good for us. It is also good for the environment because it encourages lifelong positive behaviours.

“Outdoor learning has become increasingly important over the last few years, especially as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic which has made us all more aware than ever of how important it is to spend time outdoors and to nurture our connection with nature.

“It is widely recognised for its significant health and well-being benefits and is advocated by the Welsh Government as a key pedagogical approach to delivering the new Curriculum for Wales.

“Wales Outdoor Learning Week is a fantastic opportunity to showcase all the excellent outdoor learning opportunities for schools and educational settings, as well as for families and the wider public – whatever your age.

Throughout the Week activities and events will be held across Wales to help people connect with nature, as well as to inspire teachers, learning groups and families across Wales to embed learning in, learning about and learning for, the natural environment within school and family life.  

Enjoyable outdoor activities

Wales Council for Outdoor Learning members are among those looking forward to a busy and activity-packed week.

Siân Lewis, Yr Urdd Chief Executive said: “Through our Outdoors service and the Urdd Residential Centres we offer unique opportunities for children and young people to enjoy a wide range of enjoyable outdoor activities to develop their confidence.

“Wales Outdoor Learning Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the wide range of activities and experiences available for young people with Yr Urdd through the medium of Welsh.”

Catherine Mealing-Jones, Chief Executive of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority added: “We’re delighted to be taking part in this year’s Outdoor Learning Week. Our education team are delivering a vibrant programme of activity, including geocaching, tree measuring, bog walks, den building and orienteering. Engaging children from all backgrounds with the outdoors is a key part of our work at the national park; it is vital to protecting the future of our natural world.”

• Check out our Wales Outdoor Learning Week activity ideas, perfect for schools, families and individuals in English and Cymraeg.
• Find out more about Wales Outdoor Learning Week. 

Photo by Mike Daniels show John Muir Trust Members at Cwm Idwal in the Snowdonia National Park.