YHA gets behind outdoor learning
YHA is fully behind the Government's new Manifesto for Learning Outside the Classroom. The blueprint setting out ways of broadening the horizons of young people through providing learning experiences in ‘real' situations outside the formal classroom environment is published today (28/11/06)
And YHA Chief Executive Roger Clarke says the budget accommodation provider had no hesitation in lending its support to the new education movement.
He said: "We have endorsed the Manifesto because we believe that by working together we can provide many more opportunities for children and young people to experience the world beyond the classroom as an essential part of their learning and development.
"The aims of the manifesto dovetail perfectly with YHA's core objective - to help young people, particularly of limited means, to a greater knowledge of the countryside, and the cultural values of towns and cities, by providing accommodation for them in their travels and promoting their education.
"We recognise that, quality learning experiences in ‘real' situations can raise achievement across a range of subjects and develop better personal and social skills.
"When these experiences are well planned, safely managed and personalised to meet the needs of every child they can develop skills and independence in a widening range of environments as well as make learning more engaging and relevant to young people."
YHA has made a firm commitment to helping schools fulfil the outdoor learning aspects of the National Curriculum through its Learn 4 Real scheme.
This provides affordable residential trip packages at selected YHA centres that are geared up for schools and include all food, accommodation and Curriculum-linked activities delivered by hostel staff.
A separate YHA scheme - Breaks 4 Kids - provides grant funding so that disadvantaged young people can join their classmates on residential visits.
More than 100 other organisations have also signed up to back the Manifesto, including English Heritage, Field Studies Council, Natural England, RSPB, Outward Bound Trust, Arts Council, Forestry Commission, Natural History Museum, Farming and Countryside Education, National Trust and Learning through Landscapes.
Roger added: "YHA is looking forward to working with schools, local authorities, the Learning Outside the Classroom Council and all of the many organisations who have endorsed the Manifesto, to ensure that all children and young people have a chance to develop their learning in exciting and fulfilling ways outside the classroom."
For more information visit: www.teachernet.gov.uk/learningoutsidetheclassroom
