More needs to be done to encourage young people to take part in environmental and outdoor educational initiatives: that is the call from MSP Murdo Fraser who has lodged a parliamentary motion to highlight the issue in the Scottish Parliament. The parliamentary motion outlines the importance of outdoor education initiatives, such as the John Muir Awards, and their role in allowing young people to learn new skills and appreciate Scotland’s natural environment. The motion has attracted cross-party support from Labour, Liberal Democrat, SNP and fellow Conservative MSPs and Murdo Fraser hopes that motion will be debated later in the year. The parliamentary motion reads: That the Parliament commends all the schools taking part in the John Muir Award, an educational initiative of the John Muir Trust; recognises that the John Muir Award is an environmental award scheme focused on wild places and encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with, enjoy and care for wild places; acknowledges the importance of outdoor learning and activities for young people and thanks all the charities, groups and teachers in Mid-Scotland & Fife and across Scotland who dedicate their time so that young people can learn new skills while enjoying Scotland’s outdoors and appreciating our natural environment; and believes that there should be greater opportunities for young people to take part in environmental and outdoor award schemes and activities. Murdo Fraser MSP said: “I want to see more young people given the opportunity to take up outdoor education and I want to see outdoor education extended for those who already take part in the available schemes, such as the John Muir Award. “Our area has a number of wild places and we can boast some of the most idyllic and stunning scenery in Scotland. We are lucky to be surrounded by areas of natural beauty and I believe we will see more young people take advantage of our surroundings if given the opportunity. “It is clear from the young people who have taken part in outdoor environmental schemes that they have found many benefits such as learning new skills, working with others, visiting new places, connecting with nature, and enjoying their learning. Outdoor learning helps deliver the Curriculum for Excellence, and by participating in the John Muir Award pupils also gain recognition for their wider achievements. This is increasingly important for future employees or furthering education.”