Youngsters discover Scotland’s wilderness through Scottish Natural Heritage and The Outward Bound Trust partnership

Scottish Natural Heritage has provided support over three years to enable young people aged 11-18 from across Scotland to participate in five day residential courses with The Outward Bound Trust with a particular emphasis on natural heritage learning. Participants from Glenrothes, Lochgelly and Kinlochleven High Schools learnt about the flora and fauna of our mountains, lochs and coast and the natural processes which formed these landscapes. They discussed the impact which man has on our landscapes and how to act responsibly in these environments at the same time as they explored on foot in the mountains, canoed and rock climbed as part of their Outward Bound course. Pupils also completed their John Muir ‘Discovery’ Award and learnt about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

The Trust’s Scottish Director, Martin Davidson said, “The Outward Bound Trust exists to unlock the potential in young people through learning and adventure in the outdoors. Our centre at Loch Eil is set amid spectacular scenery and thanks to the funding from Scottish Natural Heritage we have been able to make the most of this to increase learning about Scotland’s wonderful natural environment for young people on our courses and to encourage them to continue to enjoy the outdoors on their return home.”

Pete Rawcliffe, Unit Manager, People and Places Unit, Scottish Natural Heritage said, “We are really pleased to be supporting The Outward Bound Trust in this work. Evidence clearly shows that giving young people opportunities to enjoy and learn about the natural world is hugely beneficial for them in terms of personal development, healthy living and employability. This year’s programme has again provided a unique opportunity for a group of young people, many of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds, to experience some of Scotland’s great outdoors for the first time and to gain benefits that can be life changing.”

The Outward Bound Trust and Scottish Natural Heritage are now seeking schools who would like to participate in this fantastic programme in 2016 and are particularly keen to involve those within the Central Scotland Green Network areas. Interested schools should contact enquiries@outwardbound.org.uk for further information.

ENDS

For media enquiries contact Isabel Berry, the Outward Bound Trust on 01931 740027 or isabel.berry@outwardbound.org.uk