Outdoor Learning

Outdoor Learning - The Oakmeadow Way

Outdoor Learning is a new and rapidly evolving aspect of learning at Oakmeadow. It is a way of learning that embraces the whole curriculum in outdoor environments, as well as creating opportunities to learn about outdoor environments.

Evidence shows that learning outdoors offers the potential to have a positive impact on children’s mental health, physical health and social and academic progress. We have identified a change in our children over recent years and a real need for support to equip them with the skills they need to manage their own mental health and well-being and to develop a secure level of resilience to prepare and equip them for their life ahead. Despite being more connected on a superficial level, our children are feeling increasingly isolated, scrutinised and afraid to interact. Offering the opportunity to learn outdoors will help address this. It will encourage the children to develop their social skills, increase confidence and develop a love and respect for the outdoors.

We want to encourage an active lifestyle where children become more likely to enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, running and cycling as they get older. Learning outdoors will enable children to appreciate their natural environment, interact with the elements around them and help them to gain an understanding of the world we live in.

We want outdoor learning to have an impact that is profound and sustainable on a long-term basis for both our children and, as it develops, the wider community.

  • Mrs Jo Griffiths

    Outdoor Learning Lead