EVERY pupil in the district could soon be given Ray Mears-style bushcraft lessons to give them a break from the books and help them learn some 'life skills'

EVERY pupil in the district could soon be given Ray Mears-style bushcraft lessons to give them a break from the books and help them learn some 'life skills'.North Somerset Council believes the ancient art of bushcraft and learning to survive in the outdoors are important for youngsters' development, and something they cannot be taught in the classroom.Plans are now being hatched for all pupils to receive bushcraft lessons at the council's Goblin Combe Environmental Centre in Cleeve.Inspired by programmes such as I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! and Ray Mears' BBC series, bushcraft courses have proved extremely popular at the centre.Pupils from Broadoak and Priory schools are already getting regular lessons and Goblin Combe workers say the course has had a massive effect on their personal development, teaching them important social responsibilities as well as practical skills.The courses were originally set up by tutor Matt Bush, who says the impact the lessons have had on the youngsters' personal development over the past few months has been nothing short of extraordinary.Bushcraft involves learning to live in the outdoors and originates from lessons in surviving in the Australian bush. It can include finding food, warmth and building shelter.Goblin Combe manager Kenton Keys said: "We run bushcraft activities focused on personal development with activities including cooking over open fires."It's all to do with raising confidence and challenging youngsters. Bushcraft can teach them the sort of lessons that stick with them for life."Ultimately it will hopefully be rolled out to all schools in North Somerset as we know it works and we don't want anyone to miss out.