Biodiversity-Strategy-January-2023

37 The Council Biodiversity Team help schools achieve their Green Flag award in the Eco-Schools programme , coordinated by Keep NI Beautiful, through bespoke advice, site visits, workshops and signposting to materials and resources they require to use the topics Biodiversity and Outdoor Learning towards their award. We aim to continue to work closely with Keep NI Beautiful and their local Field Officer to strengthen our links and deliver an excellent environmental education service for the District’s schools and communities in the District. “No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.” Sir David Attenborough Forest Schools The Biodiversity Team began coordinating the Forest Schools programme in partnership with Lough Erne Landscape Partnership and Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark in 2020 and have delivered this through the Northern Ireland Forest School Association (NIFSA) to over 20 schools so far, reaching over 400 pupils directly. The Council plan to continue outdoor based learning programmes for groups in the District, as we recognise the important role this has in connecting people with nature. Biodiversity outreach – events, training and awareness raising The Council; through the Biodiversity Team, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark and Marble Arch Caves, already hosts and coordinates biodiversity themed events, training opportunities and activities for the public and community groups. From annual events like red squirrel awareness days, bat nights and the Big Garden Bird Watch, to seasonal interests like the Big Butterfly Count or forage walks, biodiversity education for the public is available in the District. We aim to continue and improve this essential service to increase awareness, understanding and appreciation of the environment. We want to encourage new participants in our sessions and assure the public that they don’t need to be an expert to take part! 9.5 Theme 5: Education and Outreach