Outdoor Learning

What we are aiming for

At Bassenthwaite, outdoor learning is a valued and integral part of school life. We are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for children to learn beyond the classroom, making full use of our unique and inspiring natural environment.

Outdoor learning supports our school values by encouraging children to develop:

curiosity through exploration and questioning
confidence by trying new experiences and challenges
independence through problem-solving and self-directed learning
empathy by understanding the natural world and others
kindness through teamwork, cooperation and respect

We want children to develop a lifelong appreciation of the outdoors, understanding both its importance and the role they play in caring for it.

How learning happens

Outdoor learning provides opportunities for children to engage in creative, imaginative, investigative, experimental, explorative and reflective learning.

Children interact regularly with their local environment, observing and responding to seasonal changes throughout the year. Learning outdoors helps children to deepen understanding, apply knowledge and develop resilience.

Opportunities are carefully planned to include:

whole class learning
small group collaboration
individual exploration

This ensures all children, from Nursery to Year 6, develop strong interpersonal skills and a positive team ethos.

All sessions include an element of enjoyment and challenge, and children are encouraged to embrace outdoor learning in all weather conditions.

Weekly outdoor learning

EYFS and Key Stage 1

Children take part in weekly outdoor learning sessions which are closely linked to their classroom learning.

These sessions support:

early language development and communication
understanding of the natural world
early mathematical concepts through practical exploration
physical development and coordination
imaginative play and creativity

Children explore, investigate and learn through hands-on experiences, building confidence and independence from an early age.

Key Stage 2

In Key Stage 2, weekly outdoor learning continues to support curriculum subjects and deepen understanding.

Children may use the outdoor environment to:

investigate scientific concepts
apply mathematical reasoning in real contexts
develop geographical and environmental understanding
engage in creative and reflective writing
work collaboratively to solve problems

These experiences encourage independence, resilience and critical thinking while strengthening teamwork and communication.

Whole school outdoor learning days

We hold half-termly whole school outdoor learning days, where all classes take part in shared outdoor experiences within the school grounds.

These days provide opportunities for children to:

work across year groups
develop teamwork and leadership skills
engage in cross-curricular projects
experience challenge and success together

Whole school days strengthen our sense of community and promote empathy and kindness as children support one another.

Off-site outdoor learning

In addition to on-site learning, children take part in half-termly off-site outdoor learning opportunities.

These include visits to local environments such as:

woodland and forest areas
lakes and rivers
local walks and geographical studies
outdoor activity centres

These experiences allow children to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop independence and build confidence in unfamiliar environments.

What children gain

Through outdoor learning, children:

develop curiosity about the world around them
grow in confidence when facing new challenges
become more independent learners
show empathy towards others and the environment
demonstrate kindness, teamwork and cooperation

Outdoor learning supports children’s physical, emotional and social development, helping them to become resilient, reflective and responsible individuals.

How we know

We know outdoor learning is successful when children:

show enthusiasm and engagement in outdoor sessions
apply skills learned in the classroom to real-life contexts
work collaboratively and support others
demonstrate increasing independence and resilience
reflect thoughtfully on their experiences

Teachers observe participation, discussion, problem-solving and outcomes to assess impact and ensure progression across the school.

A love of learning outdoors

Outdoor learning is something our children genuinely enjoy. Whether exploring the school grounds, investigating seasonal changes or taking part in adventurous activities, children develop a strong connection with the outdoors.

Whatever the weather, children at Bassenthwaite look forward to their outdoor learning experiences and embrace every opportunity to learn beyond the classroom.

How you can help at home

Parents and carers play an important role in developing children’s confidence and enjoyment of the outdoors.

Encourage outdoor exploration
Spend time outdoors as a family—walks, visits to parks, forests or local areas help children develop curiosity and awareness of the natural world.

Support curiosity
Talk about what you see outdoors. Ask questions, notice seasonal changes and encourage your child to explore and investigate.

Promote independence
Allow children to take safe risks, try new activities and solve problems for themselves. This helps build resilience and confidence.

Be active together
Activities such as cycling, climbing, den building or simple games support physical development and wellbeing.

Model kindness and care
Encourage respect for nature by looking after environments, not littering and caring for living things.

Dress for the outdoors
Ensure children have appropriate clothing for all weather so they can fully participate and enjoy outdoor learning.