AN OUTDOORS project has given children the chance to get in touch with nature.

Children aged between five and 10 from across Flintshire have enjoyed fun games and activities at the Plas Derw Trust forest school’s Weekend Wildlife Club.

Launched in 2005, the trust is a non profit-making company with charitable status, which works with local schools to teach children about nature and wildlife.

So far more than 30 children have taken advantage of the club, which was opened in February.

Philippa Gallagher, outdoor learning co-ordinator at the school, said in today’s society of mobile phones, games consoles and the internet it was more important than ever to get back to nature.

She said: “We use the beautiful wooded areas of Flintshire to provide an environment that is challenging yet secure, stimulating yet peaceful.

“The children really enjoy going out into the countryside and have the chance to play and make new friends. They learn about the environment around them.

“A lot of the children have got their parents involved and encouraged them to go on walks using the leaflets we have produced.”

The monthly clubs are free to attend and are funded by Awards for All Wales.
Miss Gallagher said: “We hold it once a month for 10 months of the year. Each one is themed and we have done birds, trees and signs of spring.

“The purpose of Plas Derw Trust is to promote outdoor learning and sustainable living in North East Wales. It does this through the provision of forest school and environmental education.

“The school has proven to be very successful and is a valuable resource to our community.”

The trust, which has sites in Caerwys and Northop, is running a kids’ club on Thursday and throughout the summer holidays.

For more information or for bookings call on 07881700952.