AN education service aimed at providing learning opportunities for young people has been launched in the North York Moors National Park.

The initiative is raising awareness of the work by the Helmsley-based park authority, said education manager Sue Wilkinson.

“Increasingly we are seeing reports about the disconnection of young people from the natural world. This is a worrying trend for society, especially when we consider who will be the land managers, residents, visitors and advocates for our countryside and protected areas in the future,” she said.

“The North York Moors Park provides an education service which works with about 13,000 young people every year, based at the park’s centre at Danby.

“It consists of a small team of staff which provides opportunities for young people to experience, enjoy and learn about the landscapes and wildlife on their doorstep.”

She said the team is working with school and youth groups of all ages and abilities, in a range of activities, including map reading, moorland walks, geocaching, river investigations, woodland and seashore studies, arts and crafts.

“Children thrive both physically and mentally outdoors,” said Sue. “It’s so important that they gain an awareness of the value of our natural spaces. In these times of austerity and cutbacks, I hope we can continue to provide the service for a long time to come.”

This year, the park has also introduced a “Gruffalo Adventure” for infant school-aged children.

To find out more about the park’s education service go to northyorkmoors.org.uk