Reach Outdoors were delighted to have the opportunity to work with year 11 Students from Teignmouth Community College today.

The students, studying a BTEC in Countryside Access and Recreation, took part in orienteering before reviewing the activity by means of a thorough risk assessment. The students had to put their navigational skills to good practice as they raced around the forest to identify all the controls in the quickest time possible.

The group were completing elements of their BTECsyllabus by examining the use of Haldon Forest Park for recreational purposes. The group assessed the potential benefits that recreational activities have versus the impact that activities can have on a given location. The group identified possible management strategies that could be used to minimise this impact.

Students continued to produce an informative poster for Haldon that will advise members of the public on responsible use of the park.

Gemma, a park ranger for the Forestry Commission kindly provided an informative talk about the history of the land and its use as well as its development since being managed by the Forestry Commission. The ranger had a good blend of statistics, visual aids and specimens that appealed to all the senses.

With the sun shining it made the perfect setting for learning outside the classroom!

A visit to Haldon Forest Park provides a delightful day out with a range of activities to satisfy all. For more information on Haldon and its activities visit http://www.forestry.gov.uk/haldonforestpark