We know that spending regular time connecting with nature improves children’s physical and mental wellbeing. We also know that regular experiences in nature engages children with learning, develops their love of nature and develops leadership, improving communication, problem solving and critical thinking skills. Moreover, there is growing evidence that regular nature connection has a positive impact on teacher retention and job satisfaction, as well as, pupil attendance and overall educational engagement, some of the current problems in English Education.
Why then is access to nature so rarely prioritised within the UK school system?
We know that the education system is stretched. 73% of teachers are considering leaving the profession. Budgets are tight and the demands on the UK’s educators keeps growing. Is increasing access to nature a help or a hindrance?
Recognising the challenges, we’ve brought together a range of perspectives to answer: how do we transform a generation to feel confident in nature, love the natural world and protect their futures?
Our speakers:
- Ben Goldsmith, Co-Founder, EFN, & CEO, Menhaden Capital Management
- Sara Collins, Co-Founder and Lead Hypha, Nature Premium
- Kathy Willis, Professor of Biodiversity & Principal, St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford & Crossbench Peer, House of Lords
- Andy Haldane, CEO, Royal Society of Arts (RSA)
- Tony Jupiter, Chair, Natural England, Chair, Cool Earth, Fellow, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership
- Kenneth Ferguson, Director, The Centre for Public Sector Reform
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