Summer 2009 - Scottish Natural Heritage

1
“It was the bestest day in
school!” That kind of reaction has
become fairly commonplace for
the folk behind an organisation
that aims to open up the
wonders of the natural world for
schoolchildren.
Wild things! are a charity that seek
to inspire young people in Highland
and Grampian regions to develop
a greater interest in their natural
heritage. The children are encouraged
to get their hands dirty and develop
a lasting enthusiasm for their natural
surroundings.
“The various courses we run try to
increase the self-esteem, team building
skills and self-confi dence of everyone
who takes part,” explained Jennie
Martin, founder of Wild things!. “Many
of the teenagers we work with are
considered ‘at risk’ or are struggling in
mainstream education.
“Getting away from the classroom
has given many children with learning
and behavioural problems the chance
to shine and be good at something.
This has done wonders for their selfconfi
dence and self-worth, as well as
building their respect for the natural
environment.”
Prior to setting up Wild things!,
Jennie worked with Trees for Life,
Growing up with
Wild things!
Getting children interested in nature gets harder when we
have to compete with video games and TV culture. But an
organisation in the north of Scotland seems to have found
a way
60 The Nature of Scotland