YOUNG people in Dorset have been educated in outdoor skills and activities throughout lockdown.

Hundreds of children and young vulnerable people have been kept active during the past three months, through an initiative run by Dorset Council’s Outdoor Education Service.

Over the lockdown period, the council has been welcoming small groups to four centres across the county. These centres have worked with local schools to run activities for children of key workers and vulnerable young people.

The children were able to have lessons in rock climbing, survival skills, orienteering and caving at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre. Activities at Leeson House included pond studies, shelter building and safe fire lighting.

The Ancient Technology Centre and Carey Outdoor Education Centre have occupied the youngsters by making fairy wands, minibeast hunts, and flower collages. Artz + Sportz+ has provided arts and sports activities for groups of children and young people who are disabled.

These activities have helped to build confidence and develop social skills among the children and young people, all whilst still maintaining social distancing.

Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for children, education and early years, said: “Being outside in nature is so important for our mental wellbeing. By offering fun outdoor activities for children and young people, keeping them occupied and learning new skills, we have also been able to provide a bit of respite for families in lockdown. By keeping the groups nice and small, or often working one-to-one, we have been able to maintain Government guidelines on social distancing.

“The Outdoor Education Centres are also responsible for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards and I am proud of the young people who are working towards their Award during this crisis. Some have joined their community volunteer teams, others taken on the mentoring of younger siblings or simply stepped up to help their families cope at home.

“As lockdown measures are gradually eased, we are working to expand the offer from the Dorset Outdoor Education services for more young people to enjoy in the near future and ensure Duke of Edinburgh trips go ahead as planned.”