Amid widespread concerns that young people are losing touch with the natural world, an education project aims to strengthen connections through practical experiences in the great outdoors.

The Gwreiddiau/Roots initiative, run by Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust with the financial support of South Hook LNG Terminal, was set up in 2020 to boost children’s knowledge of natural produce and the food networks existing in their own community.

Since then, the project has developed into a beacon of environmental education in the Milford Haven cluster of schools, and further afield. Over 5,000 local students have been involved, 16 outdoor school areas have been enhanced, and over 800 trees have been planted.

Highlights of the previous year’s programme included midsummer overnight camping experiences, coastal mapping workshops, biodiversity workshops, river trips and participation in Blossom and Apple Day events at St Brides Orchard.

Learning experiences were enhanced with help from partner organisations, such as Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools, Springboard, Roots to Recovery, Welsh National Opera, and Pembrokeshire Marine SAC.

Nine schools took part in Gwreiddiau/Roots activities in 2023: Johnston Community Primary School, Neyland Community School, St. Francis Catholic School, Coastlands CP School, Milford Haven Comprehensive School, Gelliswick VC Primary School, Hook Community Primary School, St Mark's Church in Wales VA Primary School and Milford Primary School.

Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust Director Katie Macro, said: “We are excited to build upon this success in the year ahead. By continuing to work with schools and organisations, we aim to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and foster a deeper appreciation for our local heritage and natural resources.”

South Hook LNG General Manager Hamad Al Samra, added: “Our partnership with Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust is incredibly special. Through the Roots project, children are experiencing the wonders of our local environment.”

Looking to the future, the project hopes to build on the good work done so far and pivot towards the River Cleddau, with its rich variety of habitats, biodiversity and heritage, as a focal point for curriculum and community engagement.

To learn more about outdoor learning programmes available to schools, visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales.