Forest play to help build 'essential life skills'

The forest school has been designed to benefit special educational needs students

Funding for a forest play school will help children "develop essential life skills, gain self-confidence, and discover their own capabilities", those behind the project have said.

Isle of Play has been given £49,300 for the programme that will provide weekly term-time sessions to children of school-age children and those with special educational needs

The organisation has also received an additional £47,800 to buy a new vehicle to help deliver its services.

Chief executive Chris Gregory said it will work with children to develop "confidence, physical activity, mental well-being, new experiences, inclusivity and environmental awareness".

The purchase of the new van will support Isle of Play's work across the island

Mr Gregory said the funding "makes sure we can deliver this 12-month programme with maximum inclusivity – regardless of socio-economic background and physical ability”.

“Engaging in a safe, nurturing, non-digital space also has great mental health benefits and promotes curiosity, creativity and a love for exploration," he said.

The van served as the "backbone of services reaching 1,000 children every week, enabling the transportation of essential resources, staff, and supplies and ensuring the reliable delivery of services for the next 10-plus years", he added.

The grants were made from Manx Lottery Trust’s Community Awards and Dormant Assets Fund schemes.

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