Outdoor Learning within Education - Covid-19 Impact Report IV

The aim of this Survey is to show the breadth of Outdoor Learning activities being access by schools and colleges while still working within the constraints of Covid 19.

Report Summary

Over 75% of schools and providers have been using a new or adapted approach to outdoor learning provision

• Children and young people are particularly reliant on schools to benefit from outdoor learning with 73% of provision accessed through schools

• Outdoor Learning is particularly valued by those working with the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. 

With government backing in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, Outdoor Learning can continue to make a difference to jobs, businesses and children’s and

adult’s education, mental health and active lifestyles.

Recommendations

The pandemic and the outdoor learning sector’s response has revealed the level of commitment and innovation amongst the provider base. 

The Institute recommends :

1. Immediate targeted use of outdoor learning models as catalysts in the Covid19 recovery activity for children and young people

2. A continued development of understanding of the many developmental roles outdoor learning plays for children and young people during their school age years

3. More structured development & training of teachers, school leadership & youth workers to enable better use of outdoor learning through their own staff and contracted in providers

4. Continued development of the integration of a range of outdoor learning to deliver curriculum drawing on the experience of other nations