‘Everyone’s Welcome’ - Celebrating Arthog’s 60th Anniversary
As part of its 60th anniversary celebration this year, Arthog (the outdoor education centre in Wales run by Telford & Wrekin Council) has launched “Everyone’s Welcome” - a project aiming to increase the Black, Asian and other Telford and Wrekin ethnic group’s involvement with Arthog.
A diverse group of young people have recently enjoyed their first visit to Arthog, thanks to an “Arthog 60” legacy programme fully funded by Telford & Wrekin Council.
The Council has worked with a number of secondary schools in the borough to recruit the young people taking part, people who haven’t been to Arthog before as they found this experience beyond their reach.
Rob Wilson, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Telford & Wrekin Council said: “As we look forward to Arthog’s next 60 years, I am proud to coordinate an exciting project looking to get more diversity involved in Arthog.
“We have engaged with a couple of secondary schools in our borough for some of their students to visit Arthog, students who never had a taste of Arthog before.
“During a three day residential trip, they’ve enjoyed rock climbing, canoeing and many activities at the Arthog centre.
“They are now “Arthog ambassadors” - championing other diverse young people in accessing and benefiting from the outdoor opportunities offered by our Council.
“Next year we will extend the “Arthog ambassador” programme so more diverse young people can live their first-time Arthog outdoor experiences that could really be life-enhancing, building their confidence, resilience and opening them up for new adventures.”
Ella, one of the students who took part in the “Arthog ambassador” programme this year said: “To be part of something like this is really cool. It’s bringing more people into Arthog and letting them have a taste of what it’s like. I want other people to experience this too!”
Reflecting on her first Arthog’s visit, Rhoda said: “I am really hoping that we can do this experience next year as well but for longer. We want to thank everyone for making this happen, because honestly, I have never been to the beach in my 14 years of living. “
Cllr Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, young people and families said: “Everyone’s welcome at Arthog!
“We are very keen for young people from all walks of lives, from all abilities and backgrounds to come and experience life at Arthog, at the beach, in the mountains, away from technology – it’s life-changing.
“Through the “Arthog ambassador” project, we are paving the way for young people who never visited Arthog to come to the centre, explore what it has to offer and once home, encourage their peers to do the same.
“Being active, combining mental and physical challenges, working in teams, forming friendships in this beautiful setting in the Welsh hills makes memories for lifetime.
“Looking ahead for the next 60 years, we are committed to investing in this centre to ensure it provides for many Telford and Wrekin generations.”
Over the past 60 years of being a full time outdoor education centre, Arthog has hosted well over 100,000 people.
Demand for places continues to rise and the facilities and activities on offer are increasingly being used by a broader spectrum of user groups.
The centre is open to children and young people as well as adults, places can be booked by calling 01341 250455 or by visiting www.arthog.co.uk
If you are interested to get your child or their school involved in “Everyone’s Welcome – Arthog ambassador” project 2023, please contact robert.wilson@telford.gov.uk
