The Visionaries

Welcome to all our new community members and followers! It's good to have you part of our growing educational movement. We exist to address a deep disconnect between young people and the living world. This separation, which is the consequence of many generations of extraction, exploitation, alienation and oppression, has led to significant ecological degradation, with the UK among the most nature-depleted nations. It has also resulted in youth support systems e.g. education, that leave youth ill-equipped to navigate the complex, uncertain futures they face. Sadly, younger generations are conditioned to prioritise knowledge acquisition and linear anthropocentric outcomes over the deeper work of self-development, resilience, and fostering a sense of ecological stewardship. This disconnection fuels not only ecological crises but also perpetuates a culture stuck in psychological adolescence, with short-term, self-centred goals replacing a more mature, regenerative vision of collective wellbeing. The Visionaries, through a commitment to transformative, nature-connected education, aims to shift this paradigm—enabling young people to reconnect with their inner nature, find their place in the broader Earth community, and develop the creative courage needed to lead in a complex world. We are growing a UK-wide coalition of practitioners to tackle systems change within the youth and education sectors at the root level. Join us! You can find us in person for a walk in the Peak District on Sat 19th Oct - https://lnkd.in/eZqpnZHz ...Or online by joining our whatsapp community of over 160 inspring folk across the UK - https://lnkd.in/eMc89YyG

Announcement of our next community meetup - a nature walk and (optional) camp out in the Peak District. Sat 19th October! Join us to celebrate the Autumn colours and see what you might discover through a long walk alongside some incredible people.... 👇

According to research, nature connectedness sharply declines from age 10, reaching a low between 13 and 18. This only recovers, slowly, by the age of 30. But why? While we don’t have the answers, we do know that adolescence is a time of major change. Developing self-identity, and dealing with physical growth, friendships, love, and career choices can be overwhelming. During this period, nature and one's connection to it might become less of a priority. That’s why we host a 'Village At The Edge of The World' retreat for teenagers every summer, to tackle this 'teenage dip'! We've just wrapped up this year's camp with a group of wonderful teenagers in the Lake District wilderness. It's such a privilege to host these week's community building, nature connection, wild adventures and enquiry into life, knowing how much they benefit those who join us 🍃 #Nature #EducationReform #EnvironmentalEducation #Youth

From attending one of our teacher retreats... to becoming our very own Education Lead! Faiqa recounts her powerful experience with The Visionaries 🌿 #EducationReform #Education #Leadership

Only a couple of weeks in, we've already had so many incredible moments of connection, discovery and joy at The Village! We have discovered; 🌀 The gifts of intergenerational living - each life stage holds important wisdom 🤝 That we all have a deep yearning to be in community and to be witnessed and supported by others 🌳 Spending time alone in nature reveals essential truths about life 🍃 The power of vulnerability - sharing your story is not always easy, but doing so is powerful medicine! There are more way more slugs at the campsite than we remembered... #Community #Connection #Nature #PersonalGrowth #Wellbeing

Research shows that a closer connection with nature can significantly enhance both human wellbeing and environmental health. But unfortunately, this connection is weakening. So how can we explore new ways of reconnecting with the natural world? Professor Miles Richardson, founder of the Nature Connectedness Research Group at the University of Derby, shares his actions to help people forge a new personal relationship with nature. Which one will you be trying? 🌿 #Sustainability #Wellbeing #Nature #Environment #Connection

A lack of Nature Connection is at the core of many modern crises, from climate change to mental health issues. The Separation Story many of us have inherited is at the root cause of the oppression and harm to nature and people. We believe that reconnecting with nature is essential for building a healthier, more resilient society 🌿 So, we’re asking the question: How Can We Reconnect With Nature? Here we explore how nature-based wellbeing sessions can profoundly benefit young people. Access to green spaces reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Studies show that nature improves memory, enhances social interactions, and supports overall mental health. Structured nature programs provide safe spaces for self-discovery and emotional healing, boosting resilience and mindfulness. Join us in exploring how we can all reconnect with nature and transform our world 🌍 And let us know which area we should look at next? #Community #Nature #Wellbeing #Connection

We hear from Andy Sylvain, Co-head Teacher at School 360, about how working with The Visionaries has helped her as a leader 🍃 #Education #Leadership #EducationReform #Educators

Nature Solos are a practice we are deeply passionate about. At The Village this summer, each attendee will be invited to participate in one. But what exactly is a Nature Solo? ⛺️ At it’s core it’s a three phase process – preparation, threshold, return. The intention is to provide a ceremonial container within which all kinds of magic can stir up within and around you. It creates space to tune into questions such as ‘What are my gifts? What is the world asking of me? Who am I?’ We prepare you, physically, practically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually to spend 24-hours alone in a spot of your choice in a wild place. The invitation is to fast, to be with stillness and to go with as little distractions as possible – no phones, no notepad, no music, no food. Simply taking what you need to stay physically safe (e.g. a tarp, sleeping bag, some water and warm clothes). Tuning out of all of these things allows you to tune in to the wisdom in nature, something we rarely do. Are you interested? Then come to The Village this summer! All dates and info are on our website 🌿 #Nature #Retreat #Community #Wellbeing #PersonalDevelopment

Happy Summer Solstice! ☀️ Today marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. A perfect moment to pause and reflect. Celebrate your achievements, and take a moment to express gratitude for the natural world that sustains us 🌸 Consider gathering with friends to watch the sunset, enjoying a shared meal, or spend some quiet time journaling about your experiences and growth this year. Embrace the light and warmth of this special day! #SummerSolstice #Nature #Outdoors #EnvironmentalEducation