Scots are being urged to have their say on proposals that would deliver at least one week of outdoor residential education for youngsters as the consultation period closes on a Member’s Bill today (Friday).
Scottish Conservative MSP Liz Smith has brought forward the Schools (Residential Outdoor Education Bill) and says the responses she has received so far have been “overwhelmingly positive”, with the consultation having been open since the end of April.
Her proposals have been supported by organisations including Scottish Outdoor Education Centres, YouthLink, Outward Bound and respected education consultant Keir Bloomer.
Liz Smith is now encouraging anyone who has not yet responded to the consultation to do so now, to allow her to show the strongest possible backing for her plans as she prepares to bring the bill forward to the Scottish Parliament and seek cross-party support from fellow MSPs.
She has thanked everyone who has responded already to her plans and says the benefits of her proposals for young people aged 12-16, cannot be “overstated.”
Scottish Conservative MSP Liz Smith said: “This is a final opportunity for people to have their say on my proposals which would ensure at least a weeks’ worth of outdoor residential education for those youngsters aged 12-16.
“The responses I have received so far have been overwhelmingly positive and I thank everyone who has taken the time to respond to the consultation over the last couple of months, including those who have raised many crucial issues to me.
“The benefits of delivering this bill cannot be overstated for our youngsters. 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.
“These outdoor educational experiences can improve youngsters confidence, resilience and self-esteem as well as helping cement friendships for life. Even more importantly it is our youngsters from our most deprived communities who have often never had these opportunities, but this Bill would ensure that is put right.
“On this final day of the consultation, I hope to receive even more responses. That will allow me to bring this bill to the next stage in the Scottish Parliament and hopefully succeed in securing cross-party support for this new legislation.”
Notes: You can respond to Liz Smith’s Proposed Bill here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/OutdoorEducation/
And view her speaking about her proposals here: https://www.parliament.scot/bills-and-laws/proposals-for-bills/proposed-schools-residential-outdoor-education-scotland-bill