Explore the countryside with East Devon education rangers

The East Devon Countryside Team Education Rangers are about to start a busy summer spent outdoors.

Over the summer term the rangers will be running more than 50 visits to East Devon District Council's nature reserves, beaches and other sites across the area, and over 30 of these visits are to EDDC’s Seaton Wetlands site. The Education Rangers will also be involved with the busy Countryside events programme run for local residents and tourists across East Devon.

Penny Evans, Education Ranger said: ‘’Being outdoors is beneficial for children who are able to learn through exploring their natural environment. It is always a pleasure to welcome back some schools, pre-schools and youth groups year after year, and to see new groups coming along to discover the benefits of outdoor and experiential learning.

‘’The half term and summer holidays are also looking really busy, which is great news for the well-being of our children. Countryside events such as Bug hunts and Rockpool rambles give families the chance to explore the outdoors and learn together and they are always enjoyed by young and old!

‘’There are a few places left for education sessions, and teachers or community group leaders are encouraged to contact the Education Team as soon as possible to find out more and make a booking. The Countryside events are also filling up quickly so visit the Countryside website to book places.’’

The Countryside Education Rangers run inspiring sessions at sites across East Devon to encourage young people from pre-school through to college age to connect with wildlife and enjoy time spent outdoors.

Sessions involve exploring different habitats and discovering the amazing creatures living in long grass, ponds, streams, rock pools and even estuary mud. Visiting groups also given the chance to get creative using natural materials or to learn new skills such as fire-lighting or shelter building.

East Devon District Council's Environment portfolio holder, Cllr Iain Chubb said: ‘’The Education Rangers do a fantastic job inspiring the next generation to appreciate and protect the natural environment of East Devon. The fact that many school groups come back year after year demonstrates the value outdoor learning sessions and the East Devon Countryside team has. The Countryside events guide is a summer must-have for families and individuals looking for things to keep them entertained throughout the long summer holidays.’’

More information can be found at eastdevoncountryside.co.uk or by contacting the Countryside Education team via email: education@eastdevon.gov.uk or telephone: 01395 517557. Countryside events guides can be found in local libraries and Tourist Information Centres and please contact the Countryside team if you’d like a guide.