A project funded by the Corporation has helped children from disadvantaged backgrounds take part in outdoor activities designed to boost their wellbeing.
The New Leaf Project supports London’s schoolchildren, while nurturing their well-being, creativity, and confidence during school holidays.
Held at the Barbican Library and Hampstead Heath, it offers children from the ages of five to 16 a wealth of enriching experiences. From shared lunches by campfires at Hampstead Heath, to taking part in mindful movement and creating stories inspired by nature.
The project targets children facing challenges such as poverty, disability, or caring responsibilities, and extends the reach of cultural opportunities to those who may not otherwise access them during the school holidays.
Two new pond platforms have also been built at Hampstead Heath’s teaching gardens as part of the scheme, offering young people the opportunity to immerse themselves in hands-on learning and develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, creativity, and confidence.
The initiative is part of the £400,000 Natural Environment Learning programme funded by the Corporation.
The programme helps 40,000 youngsters annually, providing them with opportunities to connect with nature, enhance their wellbeing, and develop their knowledge and skills.
Chair of the City Corporation’s Education Board, Naresh Sonpar, said:
“Given the pressing concern surrounding the attainment gap between disadvantaged students and their peers, these targeted holiday programmes serve as a vital tool in bridging that divide.
“First class education is something that should be available to every child no matter their background or ability.”
Chair of the City Corporation’s Natural Environment Board, Caroline Haines, said:
“We want young people to have a sense of belonging with their open spaces, instilling the importance of caring for, and sustaining the natural world.
“This project offers learning experiences in nature, enriching the lives of young Londoners by expanding their cultural and creative horizons.”
The City Corporation’s Natural Environment Learning Team runs educational workshops across Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest, and West Ham Park, reaching 40,000 young people a year.
The City Corporation protects over 11,000 acres of open space across London and southeast England – including Epping Forest and Burnham Beeches – and over 180 smaller sites in the Square Mile, investing over £38m a year. These green spaces, most of which are charitable trusts, are run at little or no cost to the communities that they serve. They include important wildlife habitats, Special Areas of Conservation, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and National Nature Reserves. They are protected from being built on by special legislation.
The City Corporation sponsors 10 high-performing academies across Hackney, Islington, Newham, and Southwark through the Academies Trust.
Notes to Editors
The Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile, dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK – .
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