A UK National park looks to add youth to it’s ranks of Rangers.
A few times this week on here ive spoke about the importance of giving younger people a reason to get involved in the outdoors. We’ve spoke of shocking statistics of teens and youngsters claiming they don’t spend any time outdoors and rarely visit greenery.
Lake District National Park has come forward with a new scheme in which they will be looking for teens to become their first ‘Junior Rangers’. Reports state that Ruth Kirk who has been appointed to manage the scheme is busy putting together plans which will kickstart around October this year.
Ann Blackburn, a National Park learning coordinator was quoted in saying:
“This new role involves giving the youngsters opportunities every month to learn and to take responsibility for their actions in a safe and supportive environment in a variety of tasks. I’m delighted with Ruth’s appointment and I’m sure she will be an excellent choice and an inspiring leader. “
The scheme looks set to be open for ages 14-18 and will give teens a great chance to learn outdoor skills and the day to day processes in the running and upkeep of one of Britains most coveted National Parks.
The scheme is being funded by United Utilities who own around 8% of the Lake District land who have expressed great enthusiasm to opening the doors to passionate teenagers looking to learn more about country work.
Many outdoor brands and initiatives are actively trying to encourage youths to get involved, great events like Cliffhanger in Sheffield and many around the country offer just a taste of what is out there in the outdoor world.
Earlier this year we asked our Facebook fans how often their children liked to play outdoors, many said often, but the survey also shed light onto the worries parents have about uncertain areas and leaving kids unattended. Outdoor clubs as well as Scouts and Guide groups are available all over the UK and offer safe places for kids to get outdoor experience and make new friends along the way.
I’ll be looking for news on the Junior Rangers project kicking off in October to see how they get on, but the Lake District in October? Better dig out those Waterproof Jackets folks.
Brandon
