A new educational programme, Wave Rangers, will immerse students in nature, teaching them about local ecosystems and habitats, say organisers.
Local organisations, in collaboration with mental health charity,The Wave Project, aim to revolutionise environmental education and community involvement for young people in Wokingham, as they implement the initiative.
The Wave Project supports young people’s mental and social health through ocean surfing, helping them to do what they thought impossible.
In a groundbreaking, world-first partnership the charity is collaborating with borough groups the Circle Trust schools, Wokingham in Bloom, Reading University, and local conservation groups including Friends of the Emm Brook.
Together, these organisations will borrow the ethos and learning techniques of the wave project to immerse students in nature, teaching them about local ecosystems and habitats, and demonstrating how conservation efforts and volunteering can positively impact their environment.
Working alongside community volunteers, pupils will develop a stronger sense of belonging and improve their social skills.
Railton Blyth, director of safeguarding at the Circle Trust, has facilitated the training of 11 teachers and educators from seven schools as Wave Ranger Leaders.
Two schools have already trialled the new programme during the summer term, focusing on improving insect biodiversity, and additional schools are set to launch their projects in the autumn term, collaborating with Wokingham in Bloom and Reading University.
Railton Blyth said: “In all areas of society, we continue to see the impact of social exclusion due to the pandemic in 2020/21.
Nowhere is this more prevalent than in the education sector where young people missed many of the foundations of learning and enrichment opportunities.
“The ever-increasing gap for disadvantaged students, and the impact of social media, present a myriad of challenges for the next generation, impacting their wellbeing and leading to a rise in poor mental health.
“The Wave Ranger programme provides endless opportunities for our young people, whatever their background, to be away from screens and outside in the natural environment as well as a chance to open their eyes to our community, see how they can make a difference for both their and our future.
“Teachers have shared that they have seen a noticeable transformation for those students with social, emotional and mental health needs as they learn to socialise with peers and adults alike in a safe environment, celebrating success and developing key character skills for life.”
Marianna Pentek from Wokingham in Bloom said: “Wokingham in Bloom is delighted to work alongside such a diverse group of organisations to nurture and help connect the younger generation to nature and wildlife.
“Our dedicated staff members and groups of local Wokingham in Bloom volunteers are already immersed in the project, enjoying the hands-on learning process, and already noticing how each child adapts and thrives within the programme.
“Nurturing our green spaces is beneficial not only to our environment but to residents of all ages both now and in the years to come.”
Stephanie Holding, Headteacher at Westcott Primary School, agreed: “My eyes were opened to the opportunities in our community,” she said.
“It is exciting for schools to make partnerships for the benefit of young people.
“I didn’t know there was so much learning potential on our doorstep.”
Jason Wood, Education Manager at The Wave Project added: “Our unique approach encourages pupils to become community leaders, raising awareness about environmental issues through social media, signage and public speaking.
“This not only educates students but also inspires continued learning beyond the classroom.”
“This network of partnerships promises to create a lasting impact on both the local environment and the lives of young people in the community.”
The Circle Trust and The Wave Project thank Ludgrove School for their financial support for this project, which they say reflects the school’s commitment to working to support their local community.
Wave Rangers is funded by Sport England.
Borough schools interested in joining the Wave Rangers initiative should email: jasonw@waveproject.co.uk
For more information, visit: waveproject.co.uk, thecircletrust.co.uk, and wokingham-tc.gov.uk/inbloom
