Secondary

A series of three virtual education tours in Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark.

The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark takes in the scenic areas of the Mourne Mountains, the Ring of Gullion and Strangford and Lecale. A stunning backdrop to some remarkable people and places. Forged by nature, torn apart by volcanic activity and sculpted by ice. UNESCO Global Geoparks are areas with internationally important rocks and landscapes, managed responsibly for tourism, conservation and education.

UNESCO Global Geoparks build on this foundation by integrating other aspects of heritage such as archaeology, history, culture and biodiversity. Collaborating with local communities to drive sustainable economic development and conservation. Together, they make it a better place to work, live and visit.

The Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark has a story of over 400 million years of geological history. It charts the closure of the Iapetus Ocean and the fusing of two parts into what we now know as the island of Ireland. It tracks its passage through tropical latitudes, the birth of the North Atlantic Ocean, and finally the shaping of landscape by ice during the last glaciation. A remarkable geological diversity within a relatively small geographical area makes it an ideal outdoor classroom for all ages.

To accompany this video series is a suite of resources, available below, for seven field sites within the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. Designed to equip post-primary school teachers with the information and knowledge to lead field visits to each of these sites. Also providing materials for students to carry out activities in the field.

The pack contains a suite of resources for seven field sites within the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark. It has been designed to equip post-primary school teachers with the information and knowledge to lead field visits to each of these sites as well as providing materials for students to enable them to carry out activities in the field.

This pack has been designed to fit in with specifications offered by examining bodies in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. These are as follows:

Northern Ireland
CCEA GCSE Geography
WJEC GCSE Geology
CCEA GCE AS/A2 Geography
OCR GCE AS/A2 Geology

Republic of Ireland
Junior Certificate Geography
Leaving Certificate Geography

Each field site has information that can be used independently but for a broader understanding of the geological history of the area, it is recommended that a number of sites should be visited. A summary of both the bedrock geology and the superficial geology has been provided as well as a simplified geological map to provide an overview. All of the field sites mentioned are suitable for students of GCSE / Junior Certificate age or older.

We also encourage teachers and students to use our practical field guide alongside “A Geological Field Guide to Cooley, Gullion, Mourne & Slieve Croob” to deepen your understanding and enrich your field-visits.

The Youth Engagement Programme from Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is a long-term investment in young people aged roughly 6 to 29. Grounded in the belief that engaging with nature builds strength, confidence, and purpose, it guides participants through a journey from early exploration to leadership.

At its heart are four pathways. The Junior Rangers (6-13) offer early encounters with the natural world, fostering curiosity and connection. The Youth Rangers (13-17) deepen involvement through practical experiences and greater responsibility. For young adults aged 17-24, the Youth Leaders strand cultivates leadership, skill-building, and mentorship roles. Finally, Community Ambassadors (18+) allow those with experience and passion to give back, helping shape and direct Geopark activity in both their communities and across the region.

This programme isn’t just about time outdoors. It’s about growing environmental awareness, building real skills, boosting confidence, and opening up pathways to future jobs and life-long engagement with place. From discovering your local landscapes to joining decision making, it makes nature and heritage relevant, accessible, and empowering for young people in Mourne, Gullion, Strangford and beyond.

Some past Youth Rangers had these comments to make about the programme:

“It was very educational and fun and helped me learn how to help the environment more.”

“Great for CV, thanks”

“It was brilliant fun and I would definitely come back and recommend it!”