South Downs National Park school trips scheme a success

Around 6,800 pupils from Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey have visited the South Downs National Park over the past year through its Outdoor Learning Grant scheme, which funds educational trips to sites of natural and historical significance.

Laura Sercombe, director of landscape and strategy at the National Park Authority, said: "We're really pleased to have helped to provide all these inspiring experiences for schoolchildren and look forward to helping many more schools in the region.

Laura Sercombe, director of landscape and strategy SDNPA. (Image: SDNPA)

"We want all children to be able to experience the joys, memories and learnings of the South Downs National Park with its amazing biodiversity, landscapes and history.

"Sadly, many children still do not have access to green spaces, with the latest national research showing that almost a fifth of young people living in the most deprived areas never visit a natural environment."

The scheme funded nearly 120 school trips through £70,000 of support from the South Downs Trust and the National Park Authority.

Destinations included Cuckmere Haven, Butser Ancient Farm, Devil’s Dyke, Gilbert White’s Study Centre and Pulborough Brooks.

A teacher who took part in the scheme said: "The Outdoor Learning Grant has made a huge difference.

"The cost-of-living crisis is having a real impact on families and we want to give the children real experiences, but are mindful of the cost.

"The grant makes the trip affordable.

"Some children had never been on a coach, bus or train and this experience will be with them a long time."

Schoolchildren enjoy a nature connection day at Seven Sisters Country Park. (Image: Gina Mitchell/SDNPA)

Another teacher said: "It has been the best day for the entire year group.

"The quality of the visit has met curriculum aims in a way that has given children important memories to support their learning.

"We have seen children's self-esteem visibly grow as they have had new experiences with their peers.

"They would not have had this opportunity without a grant to support with the cost of the coach and entrance fees."

Along with the grant scheme, more than 800 pupils from urban areas facing economic disadvantage have benefitted from the Generation Green 2 programme.

Funded by Defra, the initiative provides day visits, farm tours and residential stays.

The South Downs National Park Authority and South Downs Trust have also partnered with National Express Transport Solutions to expand access to school trips.

Applications for the Outdoor Learning Grant will reopen in early 2026.