Green Sparks
Green Sparks is our four week outdoor activity project in Cambridgeshire for 16 – 21 year olds that demonstrates the benefits of connecting with nature for physical and mental wellbeing, with a focus on increasing confidence, and a chance to explore real life skills for the workplace.
There will be four cohorts (each lasting four weeks) focusing on a different industry (sport, construction, conservation, and property development) and will take place on either a Wednesday or a Thursday.
Core aims:
- To increase emotional regulation and self awareness
- To build confidence through doing
- To improve mental wellbeing through nature, creativity and routine
- To foster belonging and peer connection
- To raise aspirations by exposure to real, relatable career routes
- To encourage re-engagement with learning, training and work
The sessions will focus on feeling welcome and comfortable, with drinks and snacks provided along with a welcome wellbeing goody bag. There is no pressure, no expectations- just a supportive space to re-set and build confidence. There will be an emphasis on building routine, confidence and energy in a practical and hands-on way.
We will explore the connection between nature, mental health and community through biodiversity surveying and planting for spring, building practical skills like teamwork, observation, communication and problem solving – all skills that readily transfer to further learning and work environments. There will be dedicated time for each individual to explore their interests, values and what kind of future might suit them, and build confidence in their own direction.
The last session will look at real options for work, training and learning, where participants will get to meet employers and organisations, hear honest stories and explore different roles, and will end with a personalised ‘next steps’ plan, a certificate of participation and a voucher for successfully completing.
What you will need:
Project participants will need to be dressed for outdoor weather with suitable footwear especially, and will need to bring a packed lunch (with drinks and snacks provided). Everything else, including a welcome goodie bag – shown) required for the course is provided.
If you live in the Cambridgeshire area and are interested in joining this project we’d love to hear from you! Complete the referral form below and we will be in touch. If you want more information about the project, then please do drop us an email.
With thanks to:
