MAYOR Jim Kenyon joined students from Hereford Pupil Referral Service and The Brookfield School in an action packed morning at Dinedor Outdoor Centre.

The students are engaging with a new Outdoor Learning Partnership being facilitated by staff from the Hereford Integrated Behaviour Outreach Service.

The Mayor took part in some footpath clearing and bushcraft as well as speaking and listening to the students about the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Hereford.

The morning was completed with an open fire feast using the skills the students have learnt since taking part in the programme.

The new partnership brings together the experience from staff with in the service to facilitate positive learning experiences outside the classroom to engage students who may struggle with formal classroom environments. Through the programme students get to challenge themselves through interesting, creative practical tasks as well as develop skills such as confidence and communication.

Staff work to help students re-engage with their education by raising their self-esteem and aspirations.

James Bowdler, assistant head of alternative provision said; "The programme has been a great success and is going from strength to strength, student attendance and engagement has risen since they have been taking part in the programme, it's great to see the students enthusiastic to learn and challenge themselves."

Mayor Jim Kenyon was presented with a handmade walking stick made by one of the St David’s PRU students in recognition of his support for the Outdoor Learning Partnership. The students are looking forward to visiting the Mayor’s Parlour.”