Outdoor Learning
“..the natural world is important and valuable and beautiful and wonderful and an amazement and a pleasure.”” Sir David Attenborough
Intent:
At Hackney New Primary School, Outdoor Learning is integral to our educational approach, providing children from Year 1 to Year 6 with hands-on experiences that foster a deep connection with nature while developing essential life skills. Through regular, structured sessions in local green spaces, our students engage with the natural world, exploring different trees, shrubs, plants, and the changing seasons. This immersive learning environment nurtures our values of curiosity, kindness, inclusivity and excellence, whilst also developing resilience, teamwork, risk taking and confidence. We enrich the curriculum by integrating outdoor learning opportunities that align with our school values and promote successful learning habits. Recognising that not all students have equal opportunities to experience nature outside of school, we prioritise outdoor learning as a vital part of our curriculum to ensure every child can benefit from the transformative power of nature.
Implementation
Outdoor Learning is embedded into the weekly routine for all children from Year 1 to Year 6, with sessions lasting up to one hour and led by our dedicated school staff. These sessions are carefully planned to complement and extend the current curriculum, offering a unique outdoor perspective that deepens students' understanding of the topics they are studying. Throughout the year, students are encouraged to explore and learn in different weather conditions and seasons, helping them to appreciate the ever-changing natural environment around them. Learning outdoors encompasses a wide range of activities, including visits, playtimes, physical education, and thematic lessons that take place outside the classroom. By offering these experiences, we ensure that learning is not confined to the indoors but is a continuous process that happens wherever the children are. Our outdoor learning curriculum is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that all children, regardless of their background or additional needs, can fully participate and benefit from these enriching experiences.
Impact
The impact of our Outdoor Learning curriculum is evident in the holistic development of our students. By regularly engaging with the natural world, children become more confident, independent learners who can assess and manage risks, a critical skill for personal growth. The physical and mental challenges encountered outdoors help build resilience, while collaborative activities foster teamwork and communication skills. Students develop a greater appreciation and understanding of the natural environment, which they carry with them beyond the classroom. The hands-on, experiential nature of outdoor learning also enhances their academic achievements by providing context and relevance to the curriculum. As they become more familiar with the world around them, students are better prepared to navigate and contribute to their wider community. Our aim is to expand these learning opportunities, both within the school and into the broader community, ensuring that all students have access to the benefits of outdoor learning and the chance to thrive in a dynamic, engaging educational environment.