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Outdoor learning is extremely beneficial for both pupils and teachers. For pupils it helps build a range of key life and learning skills, and teachers reap these benefits by seeing these skills adopted back in the classroom.
We’re here to tell you why outdoor learning is important and the positive impact it can have on both pupils and teachers.
Why outdoor learning is important…
There are many benefits of outdoor learning. In fact, research carried out by Swansea University found that an hour or two of outdoor learning every week engages children, improves their wellbeing and increases teachers’ job satisfaction. So here’s how it works!
Develops pupil health and wellbeing
Spending time outdoors is proven to have positive effects on pupil wellbeing. The physical exercise and energetic activities are great for getting pupils active. Not only does it benefit their physical health, but outdoor learning also promotes mental wellbeing by reducing stress and making children happier! An hour of outdoor learning can boost a pupil’s mood dramatically.
Hands-on Learning
Outdoor learning can provide a hands-on approach to learning that differs from traditional classroom-based learning. It’s a fantastic way to develop their critical-thinking skills as they explore and discover more about the world they live in.
Increases engagement with curriculum topics
Spending time in an outdoor environment brings curriculum topics to life, so pupils can actively engage with what they are learning about, and not just read about it. Outdoor learning is an ideal method if you’re looking to make a topic more interesting and engaging for your pupils. For example, with KS2 outdoor learning, you could even take them outside for a Geography class about wind and give them an anemometer to measure it. It’s a perfect way to engage them!
Socialisation
Outdoor learning provides plenty of opportunities for pupils to socialise, whether that’s when working on group projects, or communicating as a team in an adventurous activity with PGL. Classroom relationships are key, and outdoor learning can also help teachers build relationships with their pupils as well as peer-to-peer.
Teachers can vary their methods
After spending so much time in the classroom, outdoor learning allows teachers to expand their teaching methods to a new environment and try something different. It’s a great way for teachers to see what works and what doesn’t for their pupils, particularly those who don’t respond as well to classroom-based learning.
Learn outdoors with a PGL school trip!
We hope that we’ve helped you understand why outdoor learning is important. If you’re looking for a school trip that fosters outdoor learning, then our residential school trips offer pupils a fun-filled adventure with fantastic group activities and constant entertainment. And, they are perfect for developing teamwork skills and building new friendships while having a blast! All of our challenges encourage communication and collaboration, so you know your class relationships will just get stronger and stronger!
If you’re unsure about what or where you want to book, then contact us to see if our centres offer what you need!
At PGL, we have an expansive range of trips, locations and activities to enjoy, so get in touch today to discuss your next school trip.