A CAMPAIGNING forester is leading an initiative that will see children across Cheshire heading for the trees.

Simon Harding, who runs Broomheath Plantation in Stapleford, is leading a partnership that will provide pupils with the chance to be taught about conservation and the environment.

After gaining a leadership qualification, Mr Harding is to become one of the first Forest School leaders in Cheshire. A classroom and outdoor education facility is already being built on his woodland, near Tarvin.

The Forest School initiative has been mainly funded by the Forestry Commission and is already supported by many local groups such as Tarvin Community Woodland Trust, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Natural England and Groundwork Cheshire.

Susannah Podmore, Forest Education Initiative national co-ordinator, said: “Forest School is an inspirational process that offers children, young people and adults regular opportunities to achieve and develop confidence and self esteem through learning experiences in a local woodland environment.

“Outside a child is offered a positive learning experience by making sure they have regular visits to the same woodland.

“They can light fires, use tools and make dens and get a really interactive lesson in the natural environment.”

Tarvin Environment Group recently held a celebratory BBQ at the Broomheath Plantation after Mr Harding made several allotments available to those living inside the Tarvin parish.

For further information go to www.foresteducation.org

Cheshire’s Forest School is expected to be officially launched during the next six months.