Sir Gavin Williamson visited Weston Park to champion their educating kids outdoors programmes as well as to hear more about the volunteering opportunities provided.
Weston Park has collaborated with Educating Kids Outdoors (EKO) – an organisation run by Natasha Branston that specialises in learning through play. EKO organise regular weekly sessions across Staffordshire as well as running holiday clubs.
Sir Gavin also met with Gareth Williams, the Head of Curation and Learning at Weston Park, to learn more about volunteering programmes that offer opportunities to young people as well as ex-offenders.
Sir Gavin said: "I thoroughly enjoyed visiting Weston Park which is surrounded by stunning grounds, home to remarkable art collections, and is a fantastic attraction enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year.
“I have always been a strong champion of outdoor learning which boosts young people’s confidence, allows them to exercise their creativity, and also gives important life-skills that can be valuable for the future.
“It was wonderful to meet with Gareth and Natasha to hear more about the amazing work they do, and I look forward to supporting them moving forward.”
Gareth Williams, Head of Cuator & Head of Learning at Weston Park said: “We’re always keen to showcase the work of the Weston Park Foundation, as an independent conservation and educational charity, and in the work of Educating Kids Outdoors (EKO) who partner the Foundation in creating opportunities for young people to learn in this historic environment. The heritage world strives to continually be relevant and sustainable in the twenty-first century and so being able to discuss some of the challenges that we – like other historic sites face with Sir Gavin – was enormously appreciated.”
