Milton Keynes schools invited to inspire the next generation of nature lovers

How Milton Keynes’ nature nurtures young minds

Schools across Milton Keynes are being encouraged to take advantage of a wide range of free and subsidised outdoor learning opportunities designed to connect young people with nature.

The Parks Trust, the charity responsible for caring for more than 6,000 acres of green space across the city, has opened bookings for its 2026-27 education programme, offering curriculum-linked activities for both primary and secondary schools.

Among the initiatives available is the free Junior Park Rangers programme, aimed at children in Years 4 to 6. The ready-made scheme helps pupils discover local wildlife, care for green spaces and develop a lasting appreciation for the natural environment through a variety of engaging activities and resources.

The Parks Trust also delivers assemblies, workshops, youth programmes and outdoor learning sessions covering topics including Environmental Heroes, Life of Plants, Wild Wellbeing and River Explorers. Sessions are primarily held in Milton Keynes' parks, giving children the opportunity to learn outside the classroom while exploring their local environment.

Sarah Griffiths, Outdoor Learning and Interpretation Manager at The Parks Trust, said: "Our education initiatives are all about caring for nature locally, and throughout the year we're proud to engage thousands of young MK residents with their surrounding environments.

"Our team of learning experts are passionate about encouraging children to get closer to nature and caring for the environment for years to come. And our amazing volunteers love it too – they collectively contribute more than 400 hours to our learning activities every year."

The charity says its education programmes are designed to support schools while encouraging children to spend more time outdoors and develop an understanding of the importance of protecting local green spaces.

Teachers, governors and parents interested in learning more about the educational opportunities available can contact The Parks Trust or visit its Outdoor Learning webpage for further information.

Established in 1992, The Parks Trust manages Milton Keynes' extensive network of parks, lakes, woodlands, river valleys and landscaped spaces. Unlike most towns and cities, where parks are owned by the local authority, Milton Keynes' green spaces are cared for by the independent charity, ensuring they are protected and maintained for future generations.