In 2021, a three-day pilot residential stay took place at Southease Youth Hostel (YHA) in the South Downs near to Lewes.
The purpose of the residential was to connect urban children with nature, giving outdoor experiences devised to encourage active lifestyles, promote self-discovery, inspire growth and stimulate respect for nature.
Working with the London Based Charity The Garden Classroom (TGC), the trip benefited 60 Year 6 pupils (age 11 to 12) from a school in Hackney, London. This school is a London state primary which is on the Defra 25–year plan ‘Nature Friendly Schools’ priority list (based on highest proportion of disadvantaged children in England).
Following the success of this pilot the residential is now an annual programme and we continue to fundraise for future trips.
