Outdoor Learning

Intent, Implementation & Impact Statement - Outdoor Learning (Coppice)

Intent

At Kings Norton Primary School, our intent for outdoor learning is to provide a rich, purposeful, and holistic education that goes beyond the traditional classroom environment. We believe that outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for our pupils, including enhanced physical and mental wellbeing, improved engagement and motivation, and the development of key life skills. We are committed to ensuring that our pupils have regular opportunities to connect with nature, engage in practical activities, and learn through hands-on experiences in natural and man-made environments. Our intent is to create an outdoor learning provision that is inclusive, diverse, and carefully planned to align with the National Curriculum and the specific needs and interests of our pupils.

Implementation

To ensure the effective implementation of outdoor learning, we will follow a structured and carefully planned approach. Our implementation strategies will include:

1. Curriculum Integration

We seamlessly integrate outdoor learning across the curriculum, ensuring that outdoor experiences are linked to the learning objectives of various subjects. We carefully plan cross-curricular activities that provide authentic learning opportunities and make explicit connections between the outdoor environment and the classroom. This integration allows for the application of knowledge and skills in real-world contexts.

2. Well-Resourced Outdoor Environment

We provide a well-resourced outdoor environment that is conducive to learning and exploration. Our outdoor spaces include designated areas for different subjects and activities, such as a wildlife garden, an outdoor science area, and an outdoor art studio. We have invested in resources and equipment that support curriculum delivery and enhance the learning experience outdoors.

3. Trained and Enthusiastic Staff

We hold regular training sessions to develop skills and confidence in all staff members to deliver outdoor learning effectively. We ensure that teachers have an understanding of the benefits of outdoor learning and are equipped with the necessary knowledge to manage risk effectively. We encourage staff to share good practice and collaborate on outdoor learning initiatives.

4. Regular Outdoor Learning Opportunities

We provide regular and varied outdoor learning opportunities for all our pupils. These include weekly outdoor lessons across year groups on a rolling basis, dedicated outdoor days, and occasional off-site visits to local parks, forests, and other natural environments. We also capitalise on our excellent outdoor environment by utilising the coppice for learning activities.

5. Effective Cross-School Partnerships

We establish effective partnerships with local outdoor learning providers and organisations to enhance the outdoor learning experiences of our pupils. These partnerships may involve external experts leading sessions, joint projects, or collaborations that extend beyond the school grounds. We actively involve parents and carers in outdoor learning initiatives, fostering home-school links through gardening and green clubs.

Impact

We will measure the impact of our outdoor learning provision through ongoing monitoring, assessment, and evaluation. We have identified the following areas where we expect to see a positive impact:

1. Academic Achievement

We expect to see improved academic attainment across the curriculum as outdoor learning fosters a deeper understanding and engagement with subjects. Pupils develop transferable skills, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking, which support their progress academically.

2. Personal Development

Outdoor learning contributes to the personal development of our pupils by building their confidence, resilience, and self-esteem. Pupils develop a sense of responsibility for their environment and their own learning, leading to improved motivation and independence.

3. Health and Wellbeing

Engaging in outdoor learning regularly promotes physical activity, leading to improved health and wellbeing. It provides opportunities for pupils to connect with nature, reducing stress and improving mental health. Pupils develop an appreciation for the natural world and become active stewards of the environment.

4. Engagement and Behaviour

Outdoor learning enhances pupil engagement and reduces behavioural issues by providing a dynamic and stimulating learning environment. Pupils are actively involved in hands-on activities, which cater to different learning styles and interests.

5. Inclusivity and Understanding

Outdoor learning promotes inclusivity by providing opportunities for all pupils to succeed. It caters to different learning needs, interests, and abilities, ensuring that every child is included and valued. Pupils develop a greater understanding of the natural world, sustainability, and environmental issues.

In summary, our forward thinking primary school has a clear intent for outdoor learning, which is effectively implemented through curriculum integration, a well-resourced outdoor environment, trained staff, regular outdoor learning opportunities, and cross-school partnerships. The impact of our outdoor learning provision is demonstrated through improved academic achievement, personal development, health and wellbeing, engagement and behaviour, and inclusivity and understanding.