Martin Davidson, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust, vowed to continue the mission to make outdoor residentials part of the curriculum after the Residential Outdoor Education (Wales) Bill was defeated by one vote.
Attention now turns to similar Bills making their way through both England and Scotland’s respective parliaments, and the Outward Bound chief executive hasn’t given up hope.
He said: “An outdoor residential for every young person is a dream worth fighting for, and we will continue to work with politicians from across Wales and the rest of the UK to help make this a reality.
“Of course, we are disappointed, but also encouraged by the warm words and acknowledgement from across the Senedd that outdoor education can and does have a positive impact on the lives of young people.”
Sam Rowlands, who is Conservative Member of the Senedd for the North Wales region and first proposed the Bill, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he was ‘naturally disappointed’ and that despite the outcome, he will ‘continue to work to see access to outdoor education a reality across Wales.’
‘Let Us Out’ campaign
A campaign was launched last year to bang the drum for outdoor education and boost awareness of the Bills, with a poignant video showcasing the huge benefit that outdoor experiences have on young people.
When the campaign was first launched in August 2023, Tim Farron, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Westmorland and Lonsdale, emphasised the inclusive aspect of the Bills, stating: “Outdoor education should not just be for the privileged. It should be an experience that is available to every young person from every school in our country.”
Speaking after the latest development, Tim told us: “I was deeply disappointed to see that Sam Rowland’s Outdoor Education bill was narrowly voted down. This bill was the Welsh government’s opportunity to give every Welsh student an experience of the joy of the great outdoors.
“Its a privilege to work with Sam who has been a tireless champion of this vital issue. I am determined to keep working with him and other colleagues in Parliament, Holyrood, and the Senedd to ensure outdoor education is no longer just for a lucky few, but for every schoolchild.”
Liz Smith Conservative Member of the Scottish Parliament for Mid Scotland and Fife, added: “Outdoor education is hugely beneficial for both the mental and physical wellbeing of young people, which is so important, especially after the impact the pandemic has had on their education.”
About The Outward Bound Trust
Its mission is to inspire young people so they can achieve more than they ever thought possible. As a charity, The Outward Bound Trust funds disadvantaged and underrepresented communities from across the UK to carefully balance risk and reward, whilst experiencing Britain’s wildest places
