“I’ve had so much fun learning new skills and meeting new people”

“I have gained a lot of self-confidence and I’m now able to speak openly to people”

“Being part of this awesome group has boosted our confidence and understanding of the world better”

These are just a few of the fantastic comments from teenagers involved in our Youth Ranger scheme.

We’ve been running events and programmes for children and young people for several years now. There’s our popular Ranger Ralph Club for children aged between five and 12 and our Youth Ranger scheme is for anyone aged 12 through to 17.

Through a programme of accessible events and practical conservation Youth Rangers get opportunities to understand, appreciate, and enjoy Dartmoor and develop environmental skills and knowledge which leads to positive action for nature.

It covers an extensive range of activities: tree planting, dry stone walling, gorse clearance, path repairs, farm tasks – and much more besides. They’re able to explore Dartmoor and learn about its cultural heritage, wildlife and habitats outside of a formal education setting.

Their hard work, commitment and passion was celebrated at a special event earlier in the spring attended by parents, carers, our staff and Members and Dartmoor Preservation Association (DPA) who help fund the work. Four Youth Rangers spoke eloquently about how the scheme had benefited them in so many ways: boosting self-esteem, learning specialist skills, understanding Dartmoor’s biodiversity and being brave in stepping outside of their comfort zone.

Helping young people feel positive and empowered

With mental health of teenagers a near-constant debate, the Youth Ranger scheme demonstrates how a connection to nature can benefit young people and provide them with greater inner confidence as their skills grow.

We believe young people are key to the future health of Dartmoor; they’ll be its custodians and carers in years to come. We work with partners – that's landowners, conservation associations, charities and others – who want to help young people understand and conserve the natural environment and wildlife.

The year in numbers 

*20 Youth Ranger events have been held in the last year

*An average of 17 Youth Rangers attended each event – come rain or shine.

*A total of 1,853 hours has been dedicated to helping teenagers understand, explore and conserve Dartmoor.

*The scheme is supported by committed adult volunteers, helping to keep events safe.

*In a special event, group members were able to experience the joy of spending a night under the stars in Dartmoor’s idyll landscape.

For more information about how we’re making Dartmoor better for the next generation, read the Dartmoor Partnership Plan.

Article by E Pearcy

21 May 2024