PM urged to allow outdoor education sector to reopen

Over 200 leaders from the outdoor education sector, as well as high profile supporters, are among those who have put their names to a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson calling on him to allow the outdoor education sector to reopen.

In the letter, the positive role that outdoor education plays in the wellbeing of the nation’s children is outlined, as well as the part the sector can play in supporting their recovery from the effects of the pandemic. However, the serious impact that pandemic has had on the industry is highlighted, and the Prime Minister is urged to ensure that outdoor education is part of the Government’s wider reopening of education, with both day and overnight visits allowed to operate in the critical Summer Term.

Well known signatories to the letter include Benedict Allen, explorer and author; Dr. Mya-Rose Craig, the ornithologist and campaigner for equal rights; and Duncan Falconer, former Special Boat Service commando and writer.

Other signatories include Mary Ann Ochota, broadcaster and anthropologist; Etienne Stott, Olympic Gold Medal-winning canoeist; and Sir Clive Woodward OBE, former Coach of the England Rugby Team.

Andy Robinson, Chief Executive of Institute for Outdoor Learning and Member of UK Outdoors, said: “The benefits of outdoor education are clear. Over the last year, so many children and young people have been locked down in cities and towns with restricted opportunities to connect with each other or with nature; the sector can play a critical role in helping them recover from the impact of COVID-19.”

The sector has formally submitted its proposal for inclusion in the Government's Roadmap to the Department for Education, to ensure it can restart safely as soon as possible. The proposal includes day visits restarting from 29th March and residential from 17th May, in line with Step 3. A final decision is expected in the week commencing 15th March.

Jim Whittaker, Chair of Association of Heads of Outdoors Centres and UK Outdoors Member, said: “The outdoor education sector is willing and able to help children recover from this awful pandemic. We call on the Prime Minister to allow the sector do what it does best and open in the Summer term, so that we can work with young people to help them achieve their full potential.”