At Outdoors NSW & ACT, we passionately advocate for the transformative power of outdoor experiences in shaping the physical, mental, and social well-being of our communities. Our mission is embedded in the belief that nature is not just a recreational space but a vital classroom for life skills, resilience, and environmental stewardship.
This commitment underpins our recent submission to the NSW Government, seeking funding support to make outdoor education more accessible to all students across the state. Here's what we're proposing and why it matters.
The Need for Support in Outdoor Education
Outdoor education is more than just a break from traditional learning environments. It offers students critical opportunities to build teamwork, leadership, and resilience while fostering a deep connection with nature. However, for many families, particularly those in low-income or rural areas, the rising costs of transport to outdoor programs have created a barrier, limiting access to these enriching experiences.
Currently, the School Transport Subsidy Scheme (STSS) supports daily school commutes but does not extend to educational excursions or camps. This gap disproportionately affects students from disadvantaged communities, exacerbating inequities in access to quality education.
Our Proposal: Funding for Transport to Outdoor Programs
To address this challenge, we have called on the NSW Government to extend the existing STSS to include transport costs for outdoor education programs. This initiative would ensure that all school-age children, regardless of their socioeconomic or geographic circumstances, can participate in these vital learning experiences.
Why This Matters
Research highlights the profound impact of nature-based learning on children's development. From improved attention spans and reduced stress levels to enhanced social skills and academic performance, outdoor education is a proven tool for nurturing healthier, more resilient learners. At a time when mental health challenges are rising, this initiative could be a lifeline for countless students.
The benefits of this proposal align closely with the NSW Government’s priorities:
Healthy:Â Encouraging physical activity and improving mental health.
Prosperous:Â Building essential life skills for economic resilience.
Connected:Â Strengthening community ties through equitable access to outdoor education.
A Commitment to Equity and Opportunity
This proposed initiative is not just an expenditure; it’s an investment in the future of NSW. By prioritising low-income and rural schools, we can ensure that every student, no matter their background, has the chance to thrive through outdoor education.
We believe that the outdoors should be accessible to all, not a privilege for the few. With this funding, we can make significant strides in reducing inequities, fostering regional development, and alleviating cost-of-living pressures on families.
Looking Ahead
We welcome the opportunity to work closely with the NSW Government to bring this vision to life. By including this initiative in the upcoming 2024-25 state budget, the government has the chance to leave a lasting legacy for generations of NSW students. Together, we can champion a brighter, more equitable future for all.
If you'd like to support this initiative, download the template letter for your State Local Member from below and send to them as soon as possible (and make sure you copy us in!). Let's work together to create opportunities for all children to experience the life-changing power of outdoor education.
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