The great outdoors
A Craigneuk councillor has been seeing first- hand how local kids are staying active in their community.
The SNP’s Agnes Magowan has been out and about visiting pupils at Berryhill Primary School who have been enjoying outdoor learning in nearby forests and seeing the benefits of the new bike track at Wishawhill Wood.
Councillor Magowan said: “I had an inspiring morning at an outdoor forestry class with Berryhill Primary pupils , their principal teacher Marina Mathieson and community, learning and development officer Gillian McCairn.
“The pupils put up a hammock between two trees, learned how to safely light a fire and used tools to cut wood.
“They then made hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows before making a teepee.
“They learned about birds, looking after the countryside, making sure nothing was damaged and all their litter was lifted.
“The youngsters were perfectly behaved and very motivated.
“This is a very worthwhile use of Pupil Equity Fund funding; well done Berryhill Primary!”
Councillor Magowan also visited the new pump track near to The Venny and met some of the team who are helping Craigneuk kids continue to develop their skills on the course ahead of the official opening of the track on April 15.
She added: “Dan Scott and Neil Morrison from Socialtrack in Wishaw are making sure the youngsters in Craigneuk and the surrounding areas are getting loads of mental and physical stimulation.
“In addition to classes on skills on the world class pump track they are running sessions on bike maintenance, building your own skateboard and bamboo bike, healthy eating and looking after the countryside.
“They have been visiting all the local primary schools and achieving great success in encouraging all ages of children and adults to participate.
“It’s great g to see.”