A project that is transforming the lives of some of East Cornwall’s most vulnerable young people is in line for a national award.

‘Inspiring Lives’ is run at Merryhue Farm near Callington. It targets the most hard-to reach, disaffected young people, typically those who have disengaged with school and education completely and who may be young offenders.

Making use of the 124-acre farm’s outdoor setting and animals, the scheme combines mentoring, practical instruction, one-to-one tutoring and volunteering. Confidence and emotional resilience is developed through the outdoor activities and the young people come away from the course with new skills and motivation.

The project, which has already gained national recognition for its innovative approach, is now one of four national finalists for the ‘Celebrating Outdoor Learning’ awards 2019.

More details on the project plus a link to public voting to decide the winner can be found at www.outdoor-learning.org: look for ‘events’ and then ‘2019 awards’.

Voting closes on Monday September 30.