Programmes
The Leafy programmes are three-day residentials for 8-11 year olds, which take place in different outdoor education centres around the North-West (see our centres). Although the programmes vary according to season, centres, etc., and are individually adapted to fit school needs, they all consist of a trialled mix of adventure activities, practical conservation work, mindfulness sessions and eco-action learning and planning.
Since our first priority is the health and safety of the young people taking part in our programmes, all Leafy activities are conducted in a safe, supportive and non-competitive environment.
These specially-developed programmes are designed to:
- Build awareness and understanding of the environment and our impacts on it;
- Promote volunteering and sustainability stewardship, and encourage young people to make a difference in their family, school and local community;
- Enhance personal well-being, and develop skills of mindfulness and concentration;
- Help the young people explore their own strengths and develop life skills, such as:
- Self-confidence
- Teamwork
- Leadership and innovation
- Practical sustainable-living know-how
- Action-planning
The programme is divided into four main parts:
- Mindfulness
Daily sessions that encourage well-being through focus and concentration techniques, helping the children to reflect on themselves and the world around them; also new laughter for health sessions that promote relaxation and create positive feelings - Adventure
Exciting activities conducted in the natural environment, such as climbing, kayaking, archery and more; helping the children to develop personal skills, including self-confidence, leadership and team-working For a full list, see our Activities page. - Volunteering
Active learning with themes including food growing and farming, woodland studies and energy saving; to promote the protection and conservation of the environment through sustainability stewardship - Action
Project planning and management sessions to help the children generate collaborative eco-projects that will improve sustainability in their communities and help them to make a positive impact in the wider world
