This session we are introducing outdoor learning practitioner forums as professional learning opportunities for staff.  These are listed on the cpd site.

The Early Years session will be hosted by Lorraine Brown at Glenwood Family Centre using the school grounds on Monday 31st October from 4.00-5.30pm.

The Secondary session will be hosted by Britt Watson at Williamwood High School and will take place in the school grounds on Wednesday 1st March 2017 from 4.00-5.30pm.

The Primary sessions will be hosted by Neil Fogg at St Cadoc’s Primary taking place in Capelrigg Woods on Thursday 6th October 2016, 9th February 2017 and 20th April 2017 from 3.45-5.15pm.

Neil is a principal teacher in St. Cadoc’s, who has been involved in delivering and developing outdoor learning over the last five years. He has run working parties, outdoor numeracy support groups and Forest School sessions within a woodland setting close to his school during this time. The Outdoor Learning Good Practice Forum will be facilitated by Neil to provide those attending the opportunity to come along and share their ideas, learning and strategies with their peers to help one another grow and develop in their delivery of Outdoor Learning. Those attending should look to attend all three forums throughout the academic year and be happy to commit to leading one small group and sharing their practice during one of the sessions. The site that will be used for the forum is Capelrig Woods, immediately adjacent to St. Cadoc’s school. The wood is a mix of both deciduous and coniferous trees that has a fast flowing burn running through its centre. Despite being located in the heart of Newton Mearns it is a veritable wildlife haven which boasts herons, otters, grey squirrels, freshwater shrimp and much more. As a delegate please ensure you have the appropriate outdoor waterproof clothing and boots when attending each forum.

Planning a visit or a field trip to the Cairngorms National Park?

Our 2016 Travel Grant scheme is now open to schools and voluntary groups to make educational trips to the National Park. Grants are available up to 75% of travel costs, up to £200 for trips taken this year and until 31^st March 2017.

Applications are particularly welcomed from groups or schools who have not visited the National Park before, who come from socially deprived areas or experience disadvantage on account of their disability, age, health, race or income.

The grant scheme is funded by Cairngorms National Park Authority to encourage wider participation and learning about Scotland’s National Parks.

For more information and application pack, go to

http://cairngorms.co.uk/park-authority/funding/travel-grant-scheme/

or email learning@cairngorms.co.uk