The John Muir Trust has produced its annual John Muir Award in Scotland’s Colleges 2019-20 summary, with a slightly different focus this year.
The conservation charity, which is dedicated to the experience, protection and repair of wild places, is aware of ongoing challenges and uncertainties within the education sector, as well as increased interest from many organisations in maximising safe use of local outdoor environments as places for learning, to help nurture staff and students’ wellbeing, and to support a sustainable recovery post Covid-19.
The summary highlights some key reference points and resources that can help college staff who are looking to make the most of outdoor spaces – whether that’s college grounds, nearby greenspaces or students’ own local nature spots as part of blended learning approaches.
The John Muir Award is used by colleges across Scotland to inspire and connect both young people and adult learners with nature, and to add value to a wide range of courses and subject areas, with many embedding it into their core curriculum. This year’s summary shows that:
During 2019-20:
• 411 John Muir Awards were achieved by college students and staff in Scotland – 87% by young people, and 13% by adults
• 77% (317) of Awards were achieved by those facing barriers to learning
• 21% (88) of Awards were achieved at a progressive level, with participants demonstrating increased responsibility, challenge and initiative
• 76% of further education colleges in Scotland were involved in delivering the Award
You can read the full summary here.
