New learning resources bring Wales’ Designated Landscapes to the classroom and beyond
A major step forward in outdoor learning was celebrated at the Senedd on Thursday 13 March, with the launch of Tirlun – a bilingual educational resource designed to connect children across Wales with the country’s eight Designated Landscapes.
Developed over three years through a collaborative effort by Wales’ National Parks and National Landscapes, Tirlun offers more than 90 interactive activities linked to the Curriculum for Wales. Available on Hwb, the all-Wales digital learning platform, and a dedicated website, the resource is designed to support both classroom and outdoor learning, inspiring young people to engage with the landscapes on their doorstep.
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change, Huw Irranca-Davies said:
“Tirlun is a great example of how we should make sure our response to the climate and nature emergencies is a part of everything we do. Projects like this are vital to develop the future guardians of our finest landscapes and our fragile biodiversity.
“Funded through the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Landscapes, Sustainable Places programme, I am excited to see this step forward, and my thanks go to all the schools, teachers, and the National Parks and National Landscapes teams for their help in making it happen.”
The wide-ranging materials include lesson plans, interactive presentations, and activities that encourage children to explore the natural world, whether in their local area or further afield. The project brings together expertise from across Wales’ Designated Landscapes, ensuring that Tirlun reflects the unique cultural and environmental richness of these areas.
Graham Peake, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority-based project lead, said:
“Tirlun is packed with exciting activities and interactive presentations, which we hope will enrich the outdoor learning journeys of many children across Wales.
“The National Parks and National Landscapes of Wales collectively cover more than 20% of our land area and so we really should be giving our learners the opportunity to explore these areas, but the 90 plus activities included will also enable children to discover their outdoors, where they live.”
One of many teachers involved in developing and testing the activities commented:
“Tirlun is a fantastic cross-curricular resource that we use to enhance our Outdoor Learning lessons. The presentations and activities motivate the children in class who stay really engaged during the exciting activities. Everything is included in the resources and they link perfectly to the Curriculum for Wales and Digital Competence Framework.”
The Senedd launch brought together educators and representatives from Wales’ Designated Landscapes. The event featured presentations from groups of children already using the Tirlun resources, showcasing how the project is already making an impact in classrooms across the country.
Teachers and learners can explore the Tirlun resources on the dedicated website at https://tirlun.wales/.
To learn more about Wales’ Designated Landscapes and their vital role in protecting and promoting our natural and cultural heritage, visit https://landscapeswales.org.uk/.
