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 We know many children and education settings across Wales enjoy taking part in our annual Acorn Antics campaign. Unfortunately, while we await the outcome of a consultation recently undertaken on proposals to the staffing structure at NRW, we have had to make the difficult decision to pause the campaign this year.
Over recent weeks, NRW has been consulting with staff and Trade Unions on proposals for changes to its staffing structure as part of the Case for Change consultation. The consultation closed on 13 September and NRW’s Board are due to meet to consider and make a decision on the proposals in mid-October. Given that we will be communicating the outcome of the process with our colleagues at a time that usually coincides with the Acorn Antics campaign window, we have decided that it will not be possible to hold this year’s campaign.
The decision to pause does not represent any official decisions made in response to any of the proposals in the Case for Change consultation (which remains under consideration). The longer-term decision for the Acorn Antics campaign will be made following the Board’s October meeting. We know that this will come as a disappointment to many of you. We would like to thank everyone who has taken part and supported the campaign so far. In the meantime, you can still access a range of online education resources on our website
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A searchable database of nature resources available in Welsh has been produced by Gwreiddiau Gwyllt, a Welsh and environmental sector network which is encouraging use of the Welsh language in and about nature. With resources having been shared by a range of member organisations, the Cronfa Adnoddau Natur/Nature Resources database is live. Organisations, groups and individuals will find it easier to get hold of resources about nature in Welsh with many more easy-to-use resources becoming available in the future.
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With autumn’s approach, daylight hours steadily reduce, and temperatures drop. The days grow shorter and the nights longer as the season advances toward the winter solstice in December. The temptation to hibernate during the colder months is strong, but our Specialist Health Policy Advisor, Ruth Thomas, explains that spending more time outdoors during this spectacular season has many benefits. Ruth shares our pick of places to go walking to experience the full splendour of autumn’s seasonal colour.
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Running over a period of 2 years, six Carmarthenshire primary schools participated in the ‘Cynefin’ project, visiting the ‘Keepers’ site in Brechfa Forest. An ambitious project, ‘Cynefin’ saw every pupil from Llanllwni, Peniel, Llanpumsaint, Cae’r Felin, Nantgaredig and Abergwili schools spending one day per half term learning in the Brechfa forest. The project aimed to increase learners’ knowledge of their local forest and develop a sense of belonging and pride in their area.
Charlotte Evans, a teacher from Llanllwni Primary School who helped to coordinate the project commented, “It was a joy to see how much our pupils enjoyed learning in the natural environment, and we saw their academic development, their confidence, respect and understanding of nature increase substantially. Each visit was focused on an area of learning, supporting and enhancing our learning in the classroom, by giving pupils first hand and real-life experiences. It’s both an honour and a privilege to be able to co-lead such an inspiring project, which has given both pupils and staff a unique experience. Thanks to NRW and Pobl y Forest, these experiences will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
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 You and your learners are invited to participate in the UK’s annual Water Night, organised by Waterwise, the UK’s independent voice on water efficiency for people and the planet. This year, schools are encouraged to hold a ‘Wear something blue day’ on October 24th, in support of Water Night.
Water Night is a UK-wide event focused on raising awareness about water usage, for the people and our planet. This year’s theme is Tap Off, Tune In, and everyone is invited to join the #TapOffTuneIn Challenge by simply turning off non-essential taps between 5-10pm and reflecting on how we use water and why it’s so vital.
Educational resources to help schools evaluate and improve their water usage such as a free downloadable School Water Audit are available on Waterwise’s resource page. A fantastic opportunity to engage students in climate action and boost ‘water literacy’ among young people.
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Our Education, learning and play YouTube playlist offers a range of a short how-to videos to provide inspiration for some outdoor adventures.
Would you like regular outdoor learning updates and news? Why not follow the Outdoor Learning Wales X account or join the closed Facebook Group which both offer a platform to keep up to date, spread the word of ongoing projects and facilitate discussions with anyone with an interest in outdoor learning and environmental education in Wales.
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