Councillors see outdoor education in action during special visit
A group of senior Nottinghamshire county councillors 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.
Cllr Rory Green, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, was joined by Cllr Simon Wright, Cabinet Member for Education and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities; Cllr Gaynor Mann, Deputy Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health; Cllr Barry Answer, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, and Cllr Terry Cox for visits to Perlethorpe Environmental Education Centre and 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.
During their visit to St Michael’s in Hathersage, the councillors met youngsters from Ranby Church of England Primary School in north Nottinghamshire who were taking part in activities as part of their residential experience.
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.
Cllr Green 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.
“It was particularly lovely to meet the children from Ranby Church of England Primary School and see them getting stuck into their activities. 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.
“It was a privilege to meet the dedicated staff who make these opportunities possible and see the centres buzzing with activity. It was a wonderful visit and a great reminder of the important role outdoor education plays in supporting children and young people across Nottinghamshire.”
