Students at Warsop schools are developing self-esteem and confidence through hands-on experiences in a natural setting.

Meden School said the Forest Schools programme was supporting the emotional and mental health of its pupils.

Keith Farnworth, a member of a search and rescue team who also helps on the Duke of Edinburgh Award provision at Meden, is leading the long-term programme, which supports play, exploration, and supported risk taking.

Activities include tree climbing, lighting fires, outdoor cooking, shelter building, camping, making items out of natural resources, gardening, and animal and nature watching.

Jim Smith, headteacher of Meden School, which is part of Nova Education Trust, said: “We recognise the social, emotional and physical needs of our students — and this is a key issue within our community that we are working hard to support.

“Keith is a real treasure of the school and his approach to some of the most challenging and under-confident students is providing them with some positive experiences and skills that will benefit their futures.

“He has a keen interest in all outdoors and adventure activities. Keith is also someone who has a fantastic rapport with our most challenging students.

“Forest School at Meden is a community and we have already seen a significant impact on the young people who Keith works with, and their families.

“The programme at Meden School has already spread to supporting our feeder schools in the community, giving the same opportunities to build student confidence and resilience.”