Newtown children have been busy this summer joining in local bushcraft, river school and nature arts activities.

The Hafren Nature Adventures programme, ran by Open Newtown, delivered bushcraft, river school and nature arts activities in Newtown’s green spaces this summer.

Children aged 4-14, and their families were invited to join the programme facilitators in Dolerw Park, Trehafren Hill and on the banks of the River Severn to learn about and connect with Newtown’s natural spaces.

The project, which had been running workshops for local primary schools, was able to extend the offer and run a full programme of FREE activities, funded by the Summer of Fun grant awarded by Powys County Council.

Delivered by four multi-skilled facilitators and supported by volunteers, the sessions hosted over 150 children and their families, meeting at the Hafan Yr Afon building and setting up camp in Dolerw Park.

Children and their families had the opportunity to explore life in the river during the River Safari activities, ran by Dewi Roberts, aka The Riverman. They learnt fire lighting skills, whittling, created artwork out of natural materials, and spent time outside, amongst nature, connecting with others and the local environment.

One parent said:

“Being at the camp for the morning was great for the children’s wellbeing and sparked an interest in activities which helped to keep them entertained and away from screens for the rest of the holidays. It helped to build confidence too. We would recommend it to anyone.”

 

The Hafren Nature Adventures programme was developed by the One Planet Generation Project, led by Open Newtown, and funded by the Welsh Government’s Rural Development Programme. The project is working to inspire, empower and support young people to look after the environment.

Youth Engagement Officer, Kerala Irwin, who is co-ordinating the project said,

“We are delighted to give opportunities for children and families to not only enjoy being out in nature, but to learn how to respect and protect it.

We have a brilliant network of practitioners who will be working to deliver more outdoor activities in Newtown, for all ages and abilities.”

Youth organisations, groups, businesses, and schools are encouraged to contact [email protected] to book workshops and for more information about upcoming opportunities.

Funding for the fayre was provided through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government until June