Introducing children from rural schools to local outdoor activity opportunities to help gain from the health and well-being benefits and an appreciation for their local environment.
The delights of north Wales pulls in a huge number of visitors every week to enjoy the wealth of activities that enhance the lives of so many of us that love getting outdoors, but just because you might have it right on your doorstep doesn't mean you're automatically going to have the same appreciation.
Living in small rural communities can bring it's own issues so it's important to be able to have support for local children, to promote mental and physical wellbeing and learn about and understand their local and wider environment. So introducing them to the opportunities of outdoor activities in the local area can bring huge benefits, as Gareth from Ysgol Llanddoged knows well.
"We are two rural schools located above the Conwy Valley looking over towards the Carneddau Mountain Range and the Gwydir Forest. We really wanted to promote pupils health and wellbeing by providing taster sessions for them of activities in 'Blue' areas while also providing safety advice on being around natural water in our area."
Looking for support towards the costs of instructors, equipment hire and travel, of which the Alpkit Foundation contributed £200 to help. It was wonderful to hear back that over half of their pupils and 4 members of staff took part in the activities to experience a paddle boarding session, as well as a gorge walk up a local river.
"It was a very successful day, with many pupils being able to challenge themselves in environment they never thought they would feel comfortable in."
