Thanet
£500
Fishing
Children & Young People
The Project:
Trail Blazers Education CIC delivers engaging outdoor learning programs for young people with social, emotional and mental health needs. They provide an environment where they deliver learning opportunities with a focus on personal development and teamwork with a view to re-engaging students back into education.
The project targeted vulnerable and disadvantaged young people across Thanet who struggle with traditional educational environments. Funding was used to buy fishing equipment to deliver therapeutic fishing sessions and Forest School programs to help participants build confidence, develop social skills, and improve mental health. By promoting responsible fishing practices, they also helped raise environmental awareness within the community, encouraging stewardship of local natural resources.
Impact:
- Helped the young people engage in teambuilding activities and manage their mental health.
- Helped young people from different backgrounds mix and get on well together.
- Helped participants connect or reconnect with their local community.
- Improved understanding and awareness of the environment.
“By providing high-quality fishing equipment, we have been able to deliver sessions that not only support individual growth but also foster community well-being and encourage young people to develop patience, focus, and teamwork skills that benefit them in school and beyond.” Trail Blazers Education CIC
Key Learnings:
Be flexible and adaptable. The project reinforced the importance of flexibility and adaptability. By tailoring sessions to individual and group needs, you’ll be able to maximize engagement and outcomes.
Ensure the participants appreciate their surroundings and stay safe. This project was designed to give young people an opportunity to connect with nature, learn new skills, and find a sense of belonging outside traditional school settings. Creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment encouraged young people to step out of their comfort zones.
Engage with the correct partners. The organisation consulted with teachers and school staff who work closely with vulnerable young people, as well parents and carers. These discussions highlighted a significant gap in accessible outdoor therapeutic activities, particularly for those struggling with mainstream education and social-emotional challenges.
Work with local authorities. The organisation coordinated with local authorities to identify and refer the young people who would benefit most from the program. This required building strong partnerships. By fostering open communication and creating flexible scheduling options, they successfully collaborated with stakeholders to ensure the right support reached those most in need.
Next Steps:
The funding allowed Trail Blazers Education CIC to enhance the quality of their sessions and better support young people who face challenges in traditional education settings. By extending their reach, they are now offering sessions to more schools, engaging with a wider community and contributing to the well-being and personal development of young people. They continue to make a positive and lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable young people.