Outdoor Initiative Connects Children with Nature

Over 350 children have participated in ‘Going Wild’ days at the King George V playing fields during the past year. This initiative, managed by The Health Improvement Commission, aims to enable children from early years settings and Key Stage 1 to interact with their surrounding environment. Funded by The Nature Commission’s Strategy for Nature Fund, the program has allowed children to discover insects, play outdoors, and fully utilize the natural surroundings of the KGV’s woodland trail. Elaine Allen, Owner Manager of Butterflies Pre-School, commented on the program, stating: “It’s a known fact children learn so much more outside… They love it.” She added, “We put them in their all-in-ones and out they go, all year round.” Alun Williams, Be Active Lead at the Health Improvement Commission, noted that the children have been “energised… by the different kind of day out.” He highlighted that The Health Improvement Commission’s objective is to “make more people more active, more often.” Mr Williams also mentioned that, with the commission’s base already located at the KGV, the initiative has additionally provided “the KGV an additional identity as a real base for the community.” Angela Salmon, Head of Operations and Education at the Nature Commission, stated that the commission provided funding for resources such as minibeast tools, wooden tree blocks, and nature-themed books. She indicated that these resources would assist children in understanding their surrounding environment.