Rural school pupils visiting Trees for Life’s Dundreggan rewilding estate near Loch Ness have been helping shape a pioneering nature-based research programme to boost young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Working alongside researchers from the University of South Wales (USW), pupils from Highland schools have been exploring how spending time in nature can improve wellbeing, help young people cope with difficult times, and support the mental health of those living in remote and rural communities.

Many young people face poor mental wellbeing, because of issues including exam stress, bullying, body image worries, and climate anxiety, say the researchers. Rural school students also experience infrastructure and social barriers, including isolation.