Outdoor Learning

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“…it is obvious that outdoor play experiences contribute to children’s physical development, in particular to motor development. Less obvious is the learning that happens as children test their strength, externally and internally: how high can I climb? Why does my heart pound when I run? Am I brave enough to jump from this platform?”

Hewes and McEwan (2005)

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Outdoor learning encompasses many different experiences in the outdoors: from visits, residential and PE outdoors to Forest School. In fact, any experience outdoors that allows children to engage and learn in a different way. Outdoor Learning can help to bring many school subjects alive as they focus on real results and consequences. For that reason the outdoors can have an impact on areas of the curriculum as diverse as imaginative writing and learning about the environment. Outdoor learning also provides experiential opportunities allowing pupils to respond positively to opportunities, challenges and responsibilities, to manage risk and to cope with change.

The positive benefits to children’s emotional health and well-being mean that at Gresham Village School and Nursery all children from Nursery to Year 6 receive dedicated Outdoor Learning and Forest School sessions as part of their school timetable.

Downloads

• Outdoor learning progression map