Angus pupils to embark on outdoor learning programme

The international Learning about Forests (LEAF) programme will start in January as part of Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Climate Action Schools framework.

Fifty-five schools from 21 local authorities across Scotland will be part of the pilot and will take part in training to help support them in working through the award.

In Angus, pupils from Auchterhouse, Birkhill, Borrowfield, Burnside, Cortachy, Ferryden, Grange, Inverbrothock, Isla, Ladyloan, Liff, Maisondieu, Rossie and Timmergreens Primary Schools will take part.

Feedback from the schools will help to shape the award to make it as accessible as possible.

Nicola Davidson, the charity’s education and learning officer, said: “These schools, while working towards their Learning for Sustainability goals, are also helping us develop the programme for other schools in the country.

“By participating in the LEAF programme pupils will gain a better understanding of the natural world and learn lifelong lessons about their environment and how to protect it.”

LEAF is a programme from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which offers an opportunity for schools and nurseries to meet their Learning for Sustainability goals while supporting pupils to connect with nature.

Its key focus is to give young people a deeper and more involved understanding of the natural world and in so doing so enhance their understanding and passion for tackling the climate and nature emergency.

There are important additional benefits for pupils who take part in LEAF due to increased access to outdoor education and connection with nature, including improvements in focus, mental wellbeing and academic outcomes.

The pilot programme will run until July and, if successful and funding is secured, it is hoped LEAF will be expanded and offered to all schools as part of our Climate Action Schools framework.

Further information about the programme can be found by visit LEAF | Keep Scotland Beautiful.