At St John the Baptist Primary School, we believe that outdoor learning is a child‑centred process that inspires curiosity, independence, and resilience. Through hands‑on experiences in the natural environment, children are encouraged to explore, take risks, and use their own initiative to solve problems and work collaboratively with others.

Our outdoor learning provision aims to nurture confidence, self‑esteem, and motivation, while teaching children how to respect boundaries, both physical and social. Guided by our Christian values of Compassion, Courage, and Creativity, pupils learn to appreciate the natural world, develop responsibility for their environment, and grow into reflective, resilient learners.

Children are given the freedom to explore and discover at their own pace, while adults are present to lead specific activities, provide guidance when needed, and celebrate the learning taking place. This supportive atmosphere helps pupils develop independence in both their physical skills and thought processes.

Outdoor learning builds on children’s natural motivation and positive attitude to learning, offering opportunities to:

• Take risks within safe boundaries

• Make choices and initiate their own learning

• Work collaboratively with peers and adults

• Develop emotional awareness and empathy for others

Sessions take place in all weathers throughout the year, allowing children to experience the changing seasons and environment. Appropriate clothing is worn, and safety is prioritised, for example, avoiding woodland areas during high winds.

A key principle of outdoor learning at St John’s is environmental awareness and sustainability. Pupils are taught to respect and care for the world around them, with both children and adults encouraged to consider conservation issues and the impact of their actions on the natural environment.

Outdoor learning sessions at St John’s allow children to:

• Grow in confidence through developing independence

• Learn through play and exploration

• Take calculated risks safely

• Acquire practical skills

• Build communication skills

• Promote teamwork and collaboration

• Problem‑solve and think critically

• Deepen their understanding of the natural environment and wider environmental issues

This unique and inspiring approach increases children’s confidence and self‑esteem, encouraging them to assess and manage risks appropriately. Outdoor learning is an integral part of our wider vision to provide a broad, rich, and balanced curriculum, ensuring that every child is supported to flourish academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

 

What our children say:

 

“Outdoor learning helps me feel calm and I get a break from sitting down learning.”

“I enjoy trying new things outside, like building dens and cooking on the fire pit.”

“It’s fun because we learn about nature and get fresh air.”

“I like working with my friends to solve problems outdoors.”

“It makes me feel confident when I learn new skills outside.”