Nottinghamshire councillors see outdoor education in action during special visit
Councillors tour education centres to learn about their impact
A group of senior Nottinghamshire county councillors from Mansfield and Ashfield have seen first-hand how outdoor education is helping young people build confidence, develop new skills and enjoy new experiences during a special visit to three of the council’s educational centres.
The group toured the Perlethorpe Environmental Education Centre as well as Hagg Farm Outdoor Education Centre and St Michael’s Environmental Education Centre, which are both in the Derbyshire Peak District.
The centres form part of the county council’s flagship outdoor education service, Notts Outdoors, which provides schools and young people with meaningful learning experiences away from the traditional classroom environment.
Coun Rory Green, who was part of the group, said: “It was wonderful to visit these lovely centres and see the fantastic work being delivered by our outdoor learning teams.
“Notts Outdoors is a flagship service for Nottinghamshire and these centres are playing a key role in enriching the lives of young people and providing meaningful outdoor learning experiences that inspire, challenge and support them to thrive.
“There is something very special about watching young people try something new, work together and discover what they are capable of.
“These experiences can build confidence, independence and friendships, while giving children the chance to step away from the classroom and spend time learning, exploring and having fun outdoors.”
The group also met members of the Notts Outdoors team and saw some of the activities available to children and young people, while learning more about how the centres provide opportunities to develop independence, resilience, teamwork and a greater appreciation of the natural environment.