Every year we have hundreds of young people coming out to the National Park to complete expeditions as part of their Duke of Edinburgh, Girlguiding or Scouts awards. Hopefully, they all have a good time and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the area, but we would like to help them get even more out of their visit.
I may be biased, but I think the Yorkshire Dales is such a special place. It has scenery that can be wild and bleak or gentle and rolling, depending on where you are. Although most of the area has been managed by humans over the centuries, I love the way the built structures and industrial heritage blend into the natural features and tell the story of Dales life. And don’t forget, it is never wet and miserable, only atmospheric!
Expeditions coming out to the Dales are not required to register with us, so it is hard for us to know how many groups are visiting, where they are from and when they are coming. And even if we knew about all of the different trips, it would be very difficult for us to meet with every child. So, we are organising an event for expedition supervisors and leaders to give you as much information as we can about Dales life in the hope that you can cascade that down to your students.
This FREE event (including lunch) runs from 10.30am to 4pm on 29 February 2020 at Clapham, North Yorkshire, and we still have places available. Anyone who is involved in, or thinking about being involved in, bringing expedition groups out to the Dales is welcome to come along.
There will be speakers and topics covering information on the work of the National Park Authority, public rights of way and how to choose your route, the life and work of a Dales farmer, Nature in the Dales, and the work of the Cave Rescue Organisation (CRO). The day will also include a tour of the group facilities available at Ingleborough Hall, and a visit to CRO’s headquarters.
At the end you’ll come away with a greater insight into the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the things that make it special, including much of the work that goes on ‘behind the scenes’. Hopefully you will be able to pass this information on to your students to open their eyes to some of the wonderful features (both natural and man-made) that they may otherwise just walk past, and fantastic activities to take part in.
For more information and to book your FREE place on 29 February please go to www.eventbrite.co.uk.
If you have any questions about the day, please contact me on learning@yorkshiredales.org.uk
As the National Park Authority’s Learning & Engagement Officer Cat’s work includes helping groups of all needs to access the Yorkshire Dales. If you know of anyone who would benefit from her help, please contact her at learning@yorkshiredales.org.uk or on 01756 751623.
