UK schools hit the ground running with outdoor learning this september

As we settle into the new school year, we're absolutely thrilled by the growing number of schools embracing The Outdoor Classroom system since the start of September. The enthusiasm from educators and pupils alike has been outstanding, and the numbers truly speak for themselves: 42 sessions completed, a total of 1 day, 3 hours, 24 minutes, and 17 seconds of activity time, 80 active pupils, and an impressive 118.29 kilometres travelled in the first two weeks of term!

The energy and engagement we've seen is exactly what The Outdoor Classroom system was designed to foster – an innovative way to blend learning with physical activity, even as we head into the cooler months. Schools across the country have been quick to adopt the system, integrating Outdoor Learning into their curriculum in meaningful and enjoyable ways.

Take Springwell School, for example, with their course, 'The Key.' This course offered pupils the chance to learn how to use a map key, identifying icons that represented different types of terrain, landmarks, and more. Not only did this activity give children a vital life skill, but it also transformed what could have been a dry, classroom-bound lesson into an interactive adventure. Pupils were outside, getting some light exercise, all while learning how to navigate the world around them – a lesson that’s both practical and fun.

Similarly, St. Helen's 'Brisk Walk' course for British Sports Week was a fantastic success. The course encouraged pupils to move quickly between checkpoints, not only to fit in some brisk exercise but also to tackle cross-subject challenges. These activities warmed up their brains for the new academic year, reinforcing learning while keeping them physically active. Pupils engaged in problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork, making it an excellent example of how Outdoor Learning can encompass a range of skills and subjects.

One of the standout features of The Outdoor Classroom system is its automatic data reporting. This feature was particularly beneficial for courses like 'The Key' and 'Brisk Walk', allowing pupils to review their stats after completing the activities. They could see who finished the course fastest, how quickly they solved challenges at each checkpoint, and gain insight into their own progress. This post-activity reflection is invaluable, encouraging healthy competition and a sense of accomplishment, while also helping teachers to assess their pupils’ engagement and progress in a way that's both time-saving and accurate.

Incorporating Outdoor Learning into the curriculum has so many benefits. It gets pupils moving, even as the weather starts to cool down, and provides them with a break from traditional classroom settings. It fosters engagement, hands-on learning, and practical life skills, all while promoting physical health. The results are clear – the pupils are not only learning but thriving in an environment that encourages exploration, movement, and a connection to the world around them.

As we continue to see more schools take up The Outdoor Classroom system with our Free Membership, we're excited about the lasting impact this will have on students' learning experiences. Whether it’s developing key skills for life, getting in some exercise, or simply encouraging a love for the outdoors, the benefits are undeniable. Here's to many more successful sessions, kilometres travelled, and life lessons learned along the way!

If your school is ready to join The Outdoor Classroom, you can register here for free.