The UK’s outdoor education charity, welcoming muddy boots and the buzz of learning at our centres since 1943 – Making outdoor education easier to access.
Outdoor learning opportunities for all are under threat. Schools and parents increasingly struggle to meet the costs. The curriculum is crowded and organising time “out of school” is challenging. These vital opportunities to study the world first hand are no longer a guaranteed part of a child’s education.
We want partner with organisations to work towards removing these barriers and give everyone access to outdoor learning experiences.
It is harder to engage disadvantaged schools that are firefighting many social and financial issues, leaving little time for the development of engaging trips.1 Children in these schools face multiple barriers to outdoor learning and activities:
- Financial. The cost-of-living crisis makes trips impossible for some families.
- Cultural. People from ethnic minority backgrounds do not see themselves represented in the nature and environmental sector.
- Geographical. Access to green spaces is not equitable. Woods and forest reported as being within walking distance by 39% of white children, compared with 18% of Asian and 15% black children.2
Right now, more than ever, climate change and biodiversity loss are impacting ecosystems everywhere; green careers and focusing on the ecology sector is key. Nature needs our help.
We want to inspire, engage and train more people in environmental skills, through a network of trainers, both online and in-person, covering biodiversity metrics, species, habitats and environmental skills. To address the skills gap and support clear pathways and a pipeline into green careers.
‘There is an increased need for people with ecology skills. We need an ‘army’ of well-trained and supported professionals to create new woodlands, restore peatbogs, reduce flooding with nature-based approaches, and green our towns and cities.’3
Don’t just take our word for it;
Our Students say:
“I would not normally be able to afford an experience of this nature and the bursary supported me in attending”
“I live in an area that does not offer these opportunities or does not have good access to the outdoors”
“I am a big believer of outdoor education; no one remembers quadratic equations in a classroom, but they will remember the science learnt outside. They will remember how it made them feel and the grit and resilience they build will stay with them a lifetime.”
Beth Buchanan, Science Consultant, Harris Federation
“We are incredibly proud to support the Field Studies Council in their vital work to promote biodiversity and nature conservation across the UK. At Rivervale, we recognise the importance of safeguarding our environment for future generations, and this partnership is a key step in our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitment. By planting 500 native trees at Preston Montford, we are not only helping to restore local ecosystems and offset emissions, but also contributing to a sustainable future by reducing our carbon footprint.
In addition, we’re thrilled to support the Field Studies Council’s learning programmes, which play an essential role in educating young people about wildlife and the importance of conservation. Through this collaboration, we aim to build a deeper connection with nature and inspire the next generation to protect our planet. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on both the environment and the communities involved.”
Vince Pemberton. CEO, Rivervale.
Some of our existing partners
Find out more about the benefits of partnering with the Field Studies Council, for you & your business, the learners we work with and the environment
Discuss partnership ideas with us today
The options above are intended to spur on discussion.
Please contact Gemma Edmonds or David Plant to discuss your needs on [email protected] or call 01743 852100.
Thank you