PRESCRIBE NATURE
PRESCRIBE NATURE (SHORT COURSE)
Spend time in Newbattle’s peaceful woodlands, improving your wellbeing, connecting with others and building confidence for whatever comes next.
Dates: Tuesdays 20th October - 8th December
Duration: 8 weeks
Time: 10am – 2pm
Funding: This course is full funded by the Local Growth Fund
Eligibility:
Participants must:
- Be aged 16 or above
- Live in the Midlothian Council area
- Have a National Insurance Number
- Not currently be in work, education, further learning or training
Location: Newbattle Abbey College Woodland Campus
Includes: Lunch, refreshments, waterproof clothing and boots
COURSE OVERVIEW
Prescribe Nature is an eight-week outdoor wellbeing programme for adults who would benefit from support to improve their mental health, reduce social isolation and build confidence for the future. Delivered in the peaceful woodlands at Newbattle Abbey College, this fully funded course combines therapeutic outdoor activities with the opportunity to gain a recognised award.
The course provides a gentle and supportive first step for people who may not yet feel ready to move into employment, training or further learning. Through spending time outdoors, connecting with others and recognising their own achievements, participants can build confidence, establish positive routines and gain skills to support their next steps.
WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
This course is ideal for adults who would benefit from:
- Improved mental health and wellbeing
- Social connection in a relaxed, outdoor setting
- Re-engaging with learning in a low-pressure environment
- Developing confidence and motivation for future opportunities
- No previous experience is needed. The course is particularly suited to those who have been away from learning or work and are looking for a fresh start in a supportive space.
This program has provided a vital connection to nature, helping us improve our mental health, reduce social isolation, and build confidence.
WHAT WE DO
On this course we:
- Create a welcoming and inclusive space in nature
- Support each participant as an individual
- Use outdoor activities to promote wellbeing, learning and connection
- Build confidence and support your next steps towards learning or employment
WHAT WILL I LEARN
You will:
- Explore the wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature
- Take part in hands-on woodland activities and conservation tasks
- Build practical outdoor skills and confidence
- Work towards a nationally recognised Forest and Outdoor Learning Award
WHAT DOES THE COURSE INVOLVE?
You will attend weekly sessions every Tuesday from 10am to 2pm at Newbattle Abbey College.
All sessions take place outdoors in our woodland campus. Lunch, refreshments, waterproofs and boots are provided so you can participate comfortably in all weathers.
