Funding for education roles in conservation welcomed

As part of the Access Unlimited coalition of not-for-profit school residential and educational providers, we welcome the announcement from the government pledging £40 million for jobs in nature and conservation. We're particularly pleased to hear that the jobs will include education roles.

CEOs from the organisations in the Access Unlimited coalition, wrote to the government in May urging it to;

Extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, and
Bring forward funding to support outdoor learning as outlined through the aims of the Landscapes Review.

Welcoming the announcement, James Blake, Chief Executive of YHA (England & Wales) said: “Although this is a great start, the coalition continues to highlight the challenges the outdoor learning and residentials sectors are facing because of the pandemic. Our role in connecting millions of young people each year to real experiences in nature, and the benefits this brings to so many, must not be forgotten.”

Nick Barrett, Chief Executive of Outward Bound, added: “Our charities have focused on young people, the outdoors and environment for decades. More effort needs to be made for young people from diverse backgrounds to have clear pathways into work in both conservation and outdoor roles. And it is crucial we safeguard the natural landscapes that connect people to nature.”

More effort needs to be made for young people from diverse backgrounds to have clear pathways into work in both conservation and outdoor roles.

Nick Barrett, Outward Bound

Simon Carter, Assistant Director of The Scouts, said: “For 112 years we have championed the need for young people from all walks of life to have opportunities to learn new skills in the great outdoors. It is vital that we ensure that natural landscapes and places that connect people to nature are maintained so that as many young people from all backgrounds can benefit from this enriching experience.”

Chief Executive of the Field Studies Council (FSC), Mark Castle, said: “We must invest in skills training to protect our natural environment. As a charity focused on first-hand environmental experiences, the Field Studies Council knows how young people are under-represented and need accessible training routes into conservation. There are too few opportunities for young people to gain the confidence to use biodiversity skills and knowledge in volunteer and professional roles.”