Challenging Schools in ‘The Wooden Olympics’
An innovative new project is set to challenge schools in Perthshire to participate in the Wooden Olympics. As part of a successful bid to the Forest Education Initiative (FEI), the project will be piloted in Perthshire’s Big Tree Country and two other areas of Scotland and is the first time FEI groups have secured funding for a joint initiative.
Forest Education Initiative (FEI) aims to increase the understanding and appreciation, particularly among young people, of the environment, social, and economic potential of trees, woodlands and forests and the link between the tree and everyday products.
The Pilot Scheme
Traditional wood worker, Kenny Grieve, is developing a set of wooden games including quoits, giant skittles and Viking wrestling sticks - along with full instructions on their use. A training event in Perthshire will help teachers work with pupils to produce a set of games with a view to hosting their own Olympic-style event. |
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Simon Harry, FEI Development Officer for the North East said: "This is a long term project which is not only aims to introduce Forest Education to schools but also to create excitement and interest in multi-discipline sports events. It has strong links with the new Curriculum for Excellence, encouraging active participation by pupils in the games."
The idea originated in the North East and, over the last couple of years, the Wooden Games have been a feature of Aberdeen Treefest, popular with children and adults alike. By taking the project into schools, more children are given the chance to take part, especially those who may not have easy access to woodlands and related events.
Mike Flinn, Chair of the Big Tree Country FEI added: "At a time when there is a huge emphasis on health and exercise, the Wooden Games is a great way to help children to be more active in their school grounds. By involving children in the design and making of the games, it develops creativity, improves social skills through team working, and boosts self esteem. Moreover, it's a lot of fun!"
In the long term, plans are afoot to extend the project throughout Scotland. The second phase is set to include a competition for secondary school pupils to design additional games to be shared at an inter-school Wooden Games celebration event.
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