The future of the pioneering upland education initiative ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ has been secured by a grant from the UK’s largest shooting organisation.

Building on the first three successful years, the £37,000 legacy funding from the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) will enable the initiative to continue to grow over the next three years and achieve its ambitious educational aims.

‘Let’s Learn Moor’ is a multi-partnership free education experience for school children in upland areas.

This summer the initiative welcomed 1,400 children to seven moorland locations in the north of England. They were introduced to and educated by more than 30 partner organisations including conservation groups, national park and AONB authorities and local produce businesses, water utility companies, the emergency services and farmers.

All of the events were hosted on grouse moors with gamekeepers and regional moorland groups acting as coordinators. Events were held at locations across Yorkshire, Lancashire, the Peak District and the North Pennines.

For schools in Northumberland, dates are being set in July 2020 to visit the North Pennines and Northumberland national parks.

At its heart, the project aims to show children the variety of upland wildlife and the importance of creating a balanced and healthy moorland for future generations.

Gareth Dockerty, ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ coordinator and BASC northern regional officer, said: “The excitement and enjoyment ‘Let’s Learn Moor’ is providing for children makes the whole initiative worthwhile. Many of today’s younger generations are simply not being provided with the opportunity to get outside and learn about nature.

“It is fantastic to have the support to provide this gateway to the uplands.”