Over the course of one week Crickhowell High School, Penmaes, Talgarth, Llangors and Llyswen Primary Schools have been provided with free transport and free education activities delivered by Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority’s Education team members – delivered in both Welsh and English.
During the morning pupils were taken on a walk across Mynydd Illtyd common, observing the natural and man-made landscape features such as standing stones, farmlands, commons, biodiversity and other special qualities of the National Park. They also had the opportunity to discuss the effects of tourism on the landscape and important role the National Park plays in protecting and conserving the special area in which the pupils live.
The afternoon sessions involved fun and interactive activities which encouraged sustainability and the students’ visions for the next 50 years of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Examples of pupils work can be seen in 50th Anniversary exhibitions later in the year and they will also contribute to the new National Park Management Plan.
Sunita Welch, Education Manager for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority praised the enthusiasm of the students and officers taking part.
“Considering the weather, the spirit of the pupils has been fantastic. So far, the free education programmes we have been offering during our 50th Anniversary have been extremely popular, highlighting the challenges schools face in creating off-site experiences for learners. We aim to encourage people to think critically about the environment, the issues surrounding sustainability and the future of the Park, with the hope that more schools will try and utilise the National Park for learning.”
One more week of free education visits, with transport provided, will be offered during the 19th -23rd November at the YHA Danywenallt National Park Study Centre. For more information about the National Park Education Service please contact Linda Harley 01874-620463 or email linda.harley@breconbeacons.org
For more information about the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park’s 50th Anniversary please contact Samantha Games on 01874 620 420