Outdoor learning is becoming more important than ever in our ever-changing world and it's a great way for children to broaden their experiences, strengthen social connections and develop traits like resilience and perseverance.
While there is a whole host of advantages to explore, here are 5 main benefits we have observed during our time delivering outdoor education.
1. Disconnect From the Digital World and Reconnect With Nature
Disconnect to reconnect - it may sound challenging at first but children (and adults!) benefit hugely from taking some time away from screens. We don't often disconnect from our digital world, so it is important to support children early on in life so they can learn to manage their engagement with digital platforms and products in a healthy way.
A day away from phones, computers, iPads and TVs helps people feel more present in their surroundings. Outdoor learning stimulates the senses and encourages children to fully connect with their surroundings by exploring their relationships to risk, decision-making and social dynamics.
2. Socialise With Peers and Teachers In New Environments
A change of environment for the class offers a great opportunity to develop communication skills and build stronger relationships with peers and teachers. Away from the daily routine of school and the usual social dynamics, children can explore new relationships and reaffirm old ones.
For some students, the outdoors is where they might excel the most which can help develop stronger bonds and give them a new sense of confidence to take back to the classroom.
3. Be Active, Get Comfortable In Nature
These days children are less active than in previous decades and spend less time in nature, so outdoor activities are a great way to introduce the habit early and perhaps prompt a new lifelong passion.
By default of being outdoors, your school's outdoor learning day is likely to be quite active compared to a regular school day. From teamwork and problem-solving tasks such as Raft Building and Low Ropes to adrenaline-fuelled experiences such as Abseiling, Caving or Skiing, schoolchildren can try adventure activities they may not normally get to do.
4. Rise To Challenges and Encourage Perseverance
The world is full of challenges so it is important to prepare young people with the traits and habits that help them navigate life. Spending time outdoors means exposure to the elements and identifying changeable conditions, which encourages students to identify and adapt to hazards, risks and personal capabilities - all skills that help develop perseverance and resilience in the long run.
5. Appreciate Nature and Cultivate the Next Generation of Stewardship
Young people are aware of the climate changes happening year by year and climate anxiety is understandable considering they will be the ones living through it. Help children gain a sense of control by learning about the natural world and how they can support its regeneration and protection.
With 250 acres including a beautiful ancient woodland and rare grasslands, Mendip Activity Centre encourages love, appreciation, and respect for the natural world. There are loads of educational opportunities and plenty of moments to take in the natural surroundings and gain a closer connection with nature.
Outdoor Learning at Mendip Activity Centre
Those were just 5 of the benefits of outdoor learning and we're sure you could come up with more. If you are interested in bringing your class to Mendip, find out about our outdoor learning experiences in the heart of the Mendip Hills here.