Children in Carmarthenshire have been getting wet and dirty – and they couldn’t be happier.
They have been taking part in shelter building sessions in Welsh Assembly Government woodlands in Pembrey Country Park organised by Forestry Commission Wales education officer Hannah Mitchell.
The sessions were run in partnership with Careers Wales West (CWW) to promote outdoor learning and enabled children who have never been into the woods before to discover the natural world.
As well as shelter building, they took part in minibeast hunts and tree identification games aimed at opening their minds to the stimulating outdoor learning environment around them.
The fun sessions, which were free and suitable for all abilities, encouraged the children to solve problems and meet the needs of the Design Technology curriculum.
Hannah, of the FC Wales Woodlands for Learning team, set up the sessions after CWW officer Gareth Price approached schools in Carmarthenshire with the idea. They proved so popular that schools are now contacting CWW to get involved.
Gareth said, “This gives the students an opportunity of using the natural environment to enhance core curriculum in a fun, safe, and enjoyable way.
“The sessions also allow the children to get close to nature, acquire new skills, play in wild spaces and appreciate and understand the natural environment.”
Hannah said, “Experiencing woodlands in a controlled manner also increases self-esteem and confidence as well as social skills and concentration, while encouraging independence.
“The sessions also gave the children lots of ideas and skills to help get them out into the woods over the summer to play and learn.”
It’s hoped to continue the sessions into the autumn term.
For more information, contact Hannah Mitchell on 07919 690906, email [email protected] or Gareth Price of Careers Wales West on [email protected]
