What is Outdoor Learning?

Outdoor learning refers to any learning experiences taking place outside of the classroom. This could be in nature, on school grounds, or in the local community. 

What are the benefits of outdoor learning?

Being outdoors, with the space to be active and explore your surroundings, is a crucial part of development in childhood and key to good health and wellbeing. The benefits of outdoor learning are the same for everyone, regardless of age, through engaging our senses and allowing hands-on learning opportunities that cannot be simulated in a classroom environment.

The benefits of outdoor learning include increased opportunities for physical activity, the development of gross motor skills through exercise. It also allows for Vitamin D exposure through being in daylight, which helps sustain healthy bones, teeth and muscles, as well as improves mood and reduces stress and depression symptoms.

Outdoor learning exposes children to new experiences, which can help them gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

Outdoor learning is a great way to support the development of key skills, such as problem-solving, resilience, confidence, patience and independence.

Outdoor learning can easily facilitate teamwork activities, which develops key communication and social skills, such as turn-taking and listening to others.