The Parks Trust is inviting primary and secondary schools across Milton Keynes to enhance their curriculum with outdoor learning experiences. These programmes aim to connect young people with the natural environment.
Nature-focused educational activities
Schools can choose from a variety of nature-themed sessions designed to bring subjects to life. These include workshops, assemblies, and youth programmes. The Parks Trust offers subsidised curriculum-based activities that can be conducted both in the classroom and in outdoor settings.
Outdoor learning sessions are primarily hosted within Milton Keynes’ many local parks. Topics covered span a broad range, such as ‘Environmental Heroes’, ‘Life of Plants’, ‘Wild Wellbeing’, and ‘River Explorers’.
Junior Park Rangers initiative
Bookings are currently open for the 2026-27 academic year. A notable offering is the Junior Park Rangers programme. This initiative is designed for pupils in Years 4 to 6.
The Junior Park Rangers programme encourages children to develop a love for nature and a sense of responsibility towards local green spaces. It also aims to promote the benefits of spending time outdoors.
Described as a pre-packaged ‘club’, the programme provides schools with numerous activities and resources developed by The Parks Trust. Its structure makes it straightforward for schools to implement.
The Junior Park Rangers programme is offered completely free of charge to schools and children within Milton Keynes.
Impact and engagement
Last school year, approximately 17,000 students from the local area participated in nature-themed educational activities. Over 5,000 of these students engaged in sessions held in local parks.
These park-based sessions included activities like exploring the Roman villa at Bancroft, conducting river experiments, planting trees, and pond dipping. Participants learned about environmental stewardship and local heritage.
Sarah Griffiths, Outdoor Learning and Interpretation Manager at The Parks Trust, highlighted the organisation’s goals. She stated that the initiatives focus on local nature care, connecting young people with nature for their wellbeing, and supporting their learning.
She added that the team of learning experts is dedicated to fostering a closer relationship between children and the environment for future sustainability. Volunteers also contribute significantly, collectively dedicating over 1,500 hours annually to these learning activities.
Teachers, governors, and parents interested in The Parks Trust’s educational opportunities can find more information on their website at theparkstrust.com/outdoorlearning.
This story is based on reporting by MKFM. Read the original coverage: MKFM