FSC | Field Studies Council

Field Studies Council: Bringing Environmental Understanding to All

Creation of a Forest Education Network for England

The creation of a Forest Education Network for England is a positive outcome from changes to funding for the Forest Education Initiative (FEI) in England.

The FEI was established in 1992 as a Great Britain initiative. Its aims are “To increase the understanding and appreciation, particularly among young people, of the environmental, social and economic potential of trees, woodlands and forests and of the link between the tree and everyday wood products”.

In Scotland and Wales FEI will continue. In England the more limited resources will be transferred into developing a Forest Education Network and FSC is now looking to let a contract to develop this on behalf of the steering group.

Forest Education Network (FEN)

Through the operation of this contract the FEN will aim to:
• Share widely information and knowledge between and among all with an interest in forest education, including those already engaged through existing cluster groups;
• Encourage more organisations and individuals in England to engage in forest education;
• Inspire people about trees, woods and forests;
• Enable better understanding and delivery of forest education;
• Develop effective communications using electronic and social media;
• Help set standards, identify and share good practice, encourage quality, promote routes to qualifications;
• Provide mutual support and common purpose;
• Provide a voice for, and be an advocate of, forest education;
• Be open to all;
• Appeal to a diversity of educators;
• Link to forestry organisations and businesses at the national level.

The FEN will be wide ranging and encompass many different skills, partners and activities. This will demand a team based approach from the organisation or individuals appointed to fulfil this contract.

 

 

Monday, January 30, 2012