Enable children to explore the role of trees and forests in environmental, economic, social and cultural terms, encouraging them to engage in their natural environment and inspiring them to play a role as conscious, active citizens on an environmental and a social level.
Less than 10% of children play in natural places such as woodlands today, compared to 40% of current adults when they were young. This is despite recognised benefits of time spent outdoors. In today’s world, there is a critical need for young people to learn about global issues and to embrace active citizenship with an understanding of the complex systems that connect people and ecosystems across the planet.
International Tree Foundation (ITF) has developed an eight session teaching pack that encourages children to engage in their natural environment and inspires them to play a role as conscious, active citizens on an environmental and a social level. Tree Power is an education programme for schools that aims to support teachers and schools to inspire new generations about the local and global importance of trees and forests, and to take action to protect these. Tree Power’s vision is a world where young people appreciate, value and act to sustain the vital role of trees and forests in supporting life on Earth.
Outdoor and global learning has the potential to increase whole-class attainment and highlight new ideas in an engaging way. Outdoor learning has been found to help children persevere for longer with tasks, attempt more new tasks, and increase enthusiasm. Immersion in nature and nature-based activities are strongly connected to developing an ecological identity and sense of responsibility. Similarly, by discussing global environmental issues, groups can engender a more considerate and inclusive attitude that values perspectives from a wide range of backgrounds.
International Tree Foundation will provide support and resources for teachers to deliver the Tree Power programme through:
- Outdoor learning and practical immersion in woodlands and forests.
- Sharing of learning between schools in Africa and the UK.
- Real life stories about the role of trees and forests in livelihoods and cultures.
100 school children will benefit from this learning experience.
Tree Power project (web)