Intent

In a world increasingly influenced by the effects of climate change and loss of biodiversity, we are committed to equipping all children with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a green economy and contribute to the protection and restoration of nature. Our aim is to support our pupils in confronting the realities of climate change with determination rather than despair, fostering a mindset that embraces proactive engagement with environmental issues.

Our outdoor learning curriculum prioritises a knowledge-rich education, enabling children to become effective agents of change through hands-on activities that facilitate meaningful connections with the environment. By engaging in outdoor learning, we strive for our children to make progress across all subject areas while also enjoying the myriad benefits associated with learning in natural settings.

Furthermore, we seek to enhance the children's mental health and well-being through the integration of outdoor education, energising students and deepening their connection to the natural world. By promoting inclusive, engaging experiences and encouraging the development of critical problem-solving skills, effective communication, and resilience, we provide endless opportunities for exploration and experimentation. Ultimately, we aspire to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards, ensuring their educational journey is both full of impact and memorable.

Implementation

We believe in the vital role of outdoor learning in fostering a holistic education for all children. Every child is provided with regular opportunities to learn outside the classroom, significantly enhancing their educational experience. Additionally, Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils engage in weekly outdoor learning sessions within our designated Forest School area. During these sessions, children immerse themselves in the rich natural environment on our school grounds, promoting both personal and academic growth.

In Key Stage 2, students undertake projects aimed at investigating, planning, and implementing changes to improve the school's impact on the environment. They explore the biodiversity of local wildlife and plants, collecting data that informs initiatives aimed at environmental enhancement. Essential forest skills are cultivated, enabling pupils to handle natural resources responsibly and use tools effectively. They also learn to identify and catalogue life found both on land and in our school ponds.

Grounded in our Christian value of 'creativity', we actively encourage children to appreciate the natural world, instilling in them a sense of responsibility to protect and support nature in their local community and beyond. This commitment to outdoor learning not only enriches their academic journey but also nurtures compassionate, informed future custodians of our planet.

Impact

At our school, outdoor learning is a fundamental priority that cultivates children who are confident, resourceful, skilful, and resilient. Through engaging with their environment, our students become agents of change, empowered to recognise that their actions can significantly affect wider societal issues.

Our children acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to disseminate their understanding and beliefs within the community, fostering meaningful change that extends far beyond the school grounds. We strive to instil a positive mindset that encourages our students to proactively tackle environmental challenges, in a world where awareness of our dependency on natural resources is of ever-growing importance.

By equipping children with the tools to succeed and thrive, we ensure that the next generation is prepared to take on the responsibilities of stewardship and become agents of environmental change. Our commitment to outdoor learning fundamentally shapes the leaders of tomorrow, fostering a proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement.