School's International Outdoor Learning

SIOL is for teachers and practitioners who believe in the power of learning beyond the classroom and bringing them together in their own new global network.

The IOL’s International Conference in November 2025 prompted requests from schools, educators and educational providers for greater international collaboration and knowledge sharing. As a response, the IOL launched the Schools’ International Outdoor Learning (SIOL) Specialist Group.

SIOL offers a space to share ideas, learn from one another and develop high quality practice. From practical guidance and training to discussions around safety and planning, SIOL supports those leading and delivering outdoor learning in all forms within educational settings. A strong focus on good risk management, including the use of recognised frameworks, will ensure that experiences are both inspiring and safe. The group will be working to make outdoor learning more accessible and valued for the benefit of young people across the globe.

Importantly, SIOL is also about community. It’s about bringing us together, whether we are teachers, leaders, providers or organisations wherever we may be in the world to collaborate, support each other and raise the profile of outdoor learning.

How to join?

Membership of SIOL simply requires membership of the IOL (organisational or individual) and the selection of this group through your membership account.

Useful International Guidance & Standards for Schools

ISO 31031:2024 gives guidance on managing risk for youth and school trips for both domestic and international travel with specific attention to minors.

This document is applicable to any organization, institution or group that provides activities, visits or trips for children and youth outside of their usual place of operation.