A partnership project, between Aboyne Academy and the Cairngorms National Park Authority Ranger Service, provided six sessions designed to provide a small group of students with the mental and physical health benefits associated with connecting them to nature.  The three students who attended these pilot sessions were barely attending school due to mental health challenges and social anxiety.

Over the course of six weeks the pupils took part in a range of mindful and more practical activities including: ecological monitoring, footpath maintenance, natural art, wood whittling, bird watching and wetland restoration. As regular non-attendees, it was highly rewarding to see them all turn up and participate in the sessions, increase their social interactions and learn new skills. The feedback from the school and parents was very positive (per the following statements) and we hope to run an eight week programme for more pupils in 2025.

“I love taking part in the sessions. It has become the highlight of my week, and I really look forward to going back” 
S5 pupil

“It is a long time since I have seen my child engaged in something so positively. They definitely appear more confident and their willingness to leave the house has led to a decrease in my stress levels”
Parent

“Over the weeks all demonstrated an increase in confidence, resilience and self-belief…It was heartwarming to see young people, who were finding life difficult, enjoying the outdoors whilst smiling and laughing together and becoming more confident in their ability to engage in social interactions.”
Teacher