Schoolchildren are set to benefit from a new learning programme and two grant schemes to help connect them with nature.
The South Downs National Park Education Network is launching a new set of initiatives to help schools deliver more learning outside the classroom.
The network, made up of more than 100 education providers that offer learning experiences for young people, have developed an extensive online teacher training programme to support teachers as they return to school under difficult circumstances.
Meanwhile, two new grants have been launched that will help schools to benefit from a visit from an expert, or a field trip visit to a site in the National Park.
Online teacher training sessions, delivered virtually, will support teachers across six key themes, developed following consultation with around 80 schools. The themes are: using learning outside the classroom to deliver specific curriculum subjects, specific curriculum topics, school ground development, using woodland effectively, fieldwork skills, and health and wellbeing.
Interested schools are now being encouraged to book places on the online training programme and apply for the grants.
All schools will be eligible to apply for a grant to cover the costs of an in-school visit from an expert. Secondary Schools, Special Schools and any school with over 25% pupil premium funding will be eligible to apply for a grant to cover the full costs (transport and activities) to a site in the park.
Full details can be found at southdowns.gov.uk/learning.