A new project at Parc Bryn Bach in Tredegar is helping young people gain valuable skills whilst making a difference to their local environment.
The project is being delivered as part of Blaenau Gwent Youth Service’s in-school youth work offer at Ebbw Fawr Learning Community and brings together young people and the park’s grounds team to provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities in an outdoor setting.
This week is Great Big Green Week, the UK’s biggest celebration of community action to tackle climate change and protect nature
The project is helping to support young people who are beginning to show signs of disengagement from education. The aim is to re-engage them through meaningful activities that build confidence, skills and a sense of achievement.
Each week, the group has been working outdoors, helping to maintain and improve local pathways, mountain bike trails and the wider park environment. They’ve also supported with ‘dead hedging’, a sustainable technique that reuses natural materials to create wildlife-friendly boundaries. Their efforts have enhanced routes around the lake, improving access for visitors while demonstrating the importance of recycling and environmental stewardship.
Blaenau Gwent Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, Councillor Sue Edmunds said:
“This group of young people have shown dedication, teamwork and pride. We’re committed to tackling inequalities and supporting all young people to thrive and live healthy informed lives, and this doesn’t always happen within a classroom and with one approach. This project has kept young people engaged and has improved behaviour, plus the environment and the community has benefitted, too.”
It is hoped the experience gained could the young people with future pathways into employment or training.
Joshua Bowen, Youth and Community Worker (11–16), said:
“Seeing the young people take pride in their work and develop new skills has been fantastic. Projects like this show how powerful hands-on learning can be in helping young people reconnect with education and feel valued within their community. Thank you to the Parc Bryn Bach grounds team for their ongoing support and commitment to the project.”
Parc Bryn Bach in run by Aneurin Leisure Trust.
Stephen Williams, Duty Supervisor at Parc Bryn Bach said:
"The group has been a great addition to the team, helping us with the essential maintenance needed at the park. They've worked hard and shown interest in how we manage the many aspects of this nature reserve, learning what makes the habitat flourish for the flora and fauna."
