The spirit of an upcoming outdoors festival has spread to Moray’s schools, with pupils mapping out their own challenges in preparation for this summer’s event.
More than 6,000 entrants from all over the world are expected to take part in the World Orienteering Championships across the Highlands and Moray in July and August.
In the meantime local youngsters have been learning more about the activity and testing their skills.
Pupils at Milne Primary School were introduced to the sport by teacher Jane Barker.
Mrs Barker took children on a series of exploratory lessons, culminating in an outing to local woodlands where they took part in their first authentic orienteering competition.
Mrs Baker said: “The pupils enjoy orienteering and all the different ways that they can participate.
“It enthuses them to learn more about maps, symbols and navigation.
“By being able to understand maps, they will be able to use mathematics, problem solving and decision-making skills.
“It is also a great sport for meeting all of the significant aspects of PE and improves the health and wellbeing of pupils, as well as their cardiovascular fitness.”
Scottish Orienteering’s regional development officer in Moray, Mike Rodgers, is leading the project.
He said: “Thanks to the enthusiasm of local schools, we now have enough equipment to enable them to take orienteering to a whole new level.
“It would have been no use waiting for the World Championships to happen amidst all the hype and media coverage and then ask ‘what now?’.
“Instead, by the time the championships come round, staff and pupils will be getting to grips with the potential of this kit.”
Organisers expect thousands of fans will attend the competition between July 31 and August 7.
Director for the World Orienteering Championships, Paul McGreal, said: “By the time the final event takes place this summer we hope and expect that orienteering will be seen for the unique and exciting sport it is – one that appeals to people of all ages and fitness levels.
“Our hope is that schools throughout the country will look at the educational benefits realised in Moray and in other parts of the country, and copy their lead.”