Outdoor Learning

Intent 

Our outdoor learning curriculum is designed to develop pupils’ understanding of the natural world while empowering them to take an active role in protecting it. We aim for children to develop knowledge of climate change, its causes, and the actions individuals and communities can take; build a secure understanding of the natural environment, including the ability to identify trees, plants, and local wildlife; learn some practical outdoor survival skills, fostering resilience, independence, and problem-solving ; understand the concept and importance of rewilding and biodiversity and gain hands-on experience of plant life cycles, including pollination, food growing, and gardening.

Our intent is to nurture environmentally aware, curious, and capable learners who feel connected to nature and confident in their ability to make a positive difference. Our climate action plan helps us to embed our intent through carefully thought targets.

Implementation

Outdoor learning is delivered through regular, fully immersive experiences in the outdoor environment for year 3 and 4:

• Practical, hands-on learning forms the foundation of all sessions, with children actively engaging in planting, growing, maintaining, and exploring. They learn through direct experience in the natural world.
• Children are encouraged to touch, sense, and observe their surroundings, developing deeper understanding through sensory exploration.
• Pupils take part in the development of habitat creation.
• Learning is enriched through engagement with visitors and experts, providing real-world insight and inspiration, such as a farmer and climate ambassadors.
• Staff facilitate learning through skilled questioning, modelling curiosity, and supporting exploration while ensuring safety and inclusion.
• Some children have the opportunity to broaden their experiences through engaging in extra curricular projects, such as the Lincolnshire Show Challenge and Young Environmentalists.
• Our school is part of National Nature Parks and Let's Go Zero and we engage in nationwide initiatives such as Earth Hour, Great Big Green Week and Keep Britain Tidy.

This approach ensures that knowledge is built through meaningful experiences and sustained engagement with the environment.

Impact

The impact of outdoor learning is evident in pupils’ knowledge, attitudes, and wellbeing. Pupils develop a strong understanding of environmental issues and feel empowered to take action to support the natural world, participating in school events. Children demonstrate increased confidence in identifying plants, trees, and wildlife, alongside practical gardening skills. There is a noticeable improvement in wellbeing, with outdoor learning supporting physical health, emotional regulation, and enjoyment of school . Pupils articulate their learning and express a growing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility

Overall, pupils leave Key Stage 2 with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to contribute positively to the environment and maintain a lifelong connection with the natural world.

 

Outdoor Learning