On this page, you will find videos of people who work outdoors in the education sector. Some work in schools, teaching the curriculum outdoors. Others work for organisations up and down the country supporting young people to engage in nature, adventure and the outdoors. These people help others to develop skills and knowledge, to learn about themselves and the world around them and to have fun!
Hear from Alex MacFie, Head of Centre at the Field Studies Council on the Isle of Cumbrae. Alex has a background in successfully establishing and growing public sector projects and third sector organisations aimed at increasing educational opportunities for young people and adults. A Commerce degree from the University of Birmingham followed by a postgraduate degree in Education from Glasgow University combine well with the onsite marine biology experts to create the perfect conditions for the continued growth and success of FSC Millport.
You can contact Alex or the Field Studies Council for more information here:
a.macfie@field-studies-council.org
enquiries.mil@field-studies-council.org
You can find out more about the Field Studies Council on the Isle of Cumbrae here:
This is Ali Cush. She works for Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park as an Education and Inclusion Adviser.
Their mission is to be the vital force in protecting and enhancing Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The National Park covers an area of outstanding landscapes, habitats and communities – and it’s our job to protect it, and reduce the impact of visitor and recreational pressures. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority is an effective organisation of passionate people who inspire communities, visitors and partners to work with us to enhance and promote this iconic National Park.
They are growing the opportunities for young people to actively engage with the National Park because they believe their contributions are vital in helping us to manage this special place today and protecting it for future generations: Opportunities for Young People
Information from Modern Apprentices
The National Park Junior Ranger Programme supports 11-18 year olds with nature conservation work and experiences, giving the participants an overview of the work undertaken by the Ranger service across the National Park through fun, adventure and team building activities that develop communication skills and confidence. Find out more here: Junior Rangers
The Youth Committee is a group of dedicated young people aged between 11-25 years old who are passionate about the National Park and making a difference. Find out more here: Youth Committee
Lindsay Twilley is the Green Gym Project Officer for The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) based in East Ayrshire.
Lorna Sloan is the John Muir Award Attainment Officer in East Ayrshire. The John Muir Trust is a conservation charity dedicated to the experience, protection, and repair of wild places. Lorna’s role is to offer support East Ayrshire schools to offer the John Muir Award as part of wider achievement and as a tool to narrow the poverty related attainment gap.
You can get in touch with Lorna here: eastayrshire@johnmuiraward.org or through her Twitter.
You can find out more about the John Muir Trust by visiting their various pages:
https://www.johnmuirtrust.org/whats-new
https://www.johnmuirtrust.org/john-muir-award
Peter Stewart is a teacher and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award leader and trainer for the Learning Outdoors Support Team in East Ayrshire.
Kate O’Brien works for the Outward Bound Trust as a Project Manager. Their missions is to inspire young people to defy their limitations so they become strong, resilient and curious, ready for the challenges of life. You may be interested in looking at their long courses to develop your employability and outdoor skills: Outward Bound Trust Skills for Life Award
You can find out more about Kate and the Outward Bound Trust here:
Twitter: @kobrien_OBT
Instagram: @outwardbounduk
Carolyn McFarlane works as a primary teacher for East Ayrshire Council’s Learning Outdoors Support Team. Carolyn loves teaching outdoors and is passionate about engaging young people in nature and developing their connection to the world around them. In this video, Carolyn talks about her role and her passion for what she does.
