This academic year, 384 school classes and 194 preschool education institution groups are participating in the AS "Latvijas valsts meži" (LVM) environmental education programmes "Forest Masterclass" and "Cūkmens' Detectives", involving 13,260 children in learning about the forest. Meanwhile, in September this year, 5,835 sixth-grade pupils explored the forest management cycle in different regions of Latvia during "LVM Forest Expeditions". Through practical tasks, games and nature discovery activities, children learn to understand the forest and its multifaceted importance in Latvia.

The "Forest Masterclass" programme, aimed at primary school pupils, encourages continuing learning outside the classroom by linking nature discovery with various school subjects. Throughout the academic year, pupils regularly receive tasks and learning materials that help them get to know trees, forest diversity and sustainable forest management. This year, pupils are especially invited to discover the recreational areas managed by Latvijas valsts meži.

LVM Environmental Education Manager Līga Abizāre explains:

“The forest is a recreational and learning space created by nature, where children strengthen their physical health, restore emotional balance and build a closer bond with nature by moving, playing and breathing fresh air. This can also be integrated into everyday school life by planning lessons in nature at least once a month.”

Meanwhile, preschool children in the eco-programme "Cūkmens' Detectives" work with Cūkmens to discover the forest's dirty secrets, learning about a clean environment and responsible behaviour in nature. Programme participants explore the forest through play sessions, creative tasks and educational hikes throughout the seasons. Children learn to understand why litter should not be left in nature and how everyone can help look after the environment. For 10 years now, sixth-grade pupils have been going on "LVM Forest Expeditions" – a hike in nature where they learn about the importance and management of the forest through practical activities. Over these years, more than 60,000 pupils have been educated about sustainable forest management through these organised expeditions.

LVM has been organising environmental education events for pupils and preschool children for over 20 years, helping educators to diversify the learning process and fostering children's interest in the forest and nature. More information about school activities is available on the website skolam.lvm.lv