A few weeks ago we were reunited with our SEE project partners in Vallon Pont d’Arc, France, for a week of meetings and workshopping our current theories and ideas for sustainable outdoor education. From the 7th to the 11th of March we had the opportunity to discover and test various training methods developed by professionals associated with the International Mountain Biking Association and European Centre for Nature Sports (PRNSN).
The SEE Project aims to enhance the protection of natural landscapes through education in and through sport with special focus on responsible outdoor behaviour and skills development for outdoor sports leaders, trainers, guides, or instructors.
Our time was divided between the theoretical work and practical outdoor sessions hosted by the local CREPS training centre. These exchanges are an important part of the development of the educational tool kit, as partners have an opportunity to exchange ideas amongst themselves and test different educational methods. Whilst these exchanges are not open to public participation, experts from within the outdoor sports sector were invited to join and share their experiences, which will in turn assisted in the creation of the environmental tool kit.
Some of the activities we took part in were climbing, caving, and mountain biking – learning from the local guides both the skills associated with the activity, but also how they incorporate sustainable tourism practices into how they work and educate. Working through these activities and discussing how we all approach different situations helps us understand the impacts of each particular outdoor sport on the natural environment – and allows us to find smart solutions to address and minimise those impacts.
