Pupils get out in nature

PUPILS from Gatehouse Primary School have been getting out in nature.
A group of P6 and P7 pupils recently visited Knocktall Woodland Creation site near Borgue in the latest of a series of funded school visits in partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Woodlands and landowner Foresight Group.
Activities during the session included the pupils discussing the ageing and counting of trees, exploring minibeasts on site, discussion of topics varying from deer management through to uses of timber as well as learning more about the forestry sector.
This is the latest in a series of activities undertaken as part of an innovative collaboration between the woodland charity and the forestry firm, aiming to add value to Foresight woodland creation sites in the region.
Robert Guest, managing director and Co-lead of Foresight Natural Capital, said: “It’s fantastic to see local pupils out on site at Knocktall, engaging directly with the landscape and gaining a hands-on understanding of how forests are created and managed.
“These experiences help bring forestry to life - not just in terms of nature and biodiversity, but also the wide range of skills, careers and opportunities the sector offers.
“Initiatives like this are an important part of that approach, helping to inspire the next generation and strengthen the connection between people and the land.”
The roll out of benefits across the region is being overseen by Joe Seed, working for Dumfries and Galloway Woodlands.
Joe joined the Gatehouse Primary School visit.
He added: “Despite the weather, it was fantastic to get the pupils out amongst the trees.
“Accessible forestry sites like Knocktall have great potential as outdoor classrooms, helping young people learn about nature, forestry and the wider environment.”