Outdoor Learning - How to create a learning space in the open outdoors
27/11/23
Here at Ace Play we specialise in providing outdoor play schemes that encourage physical activity and fun.
Spending time outside is an important part of the curriculum now. And that’s no surprise, as learning outdoors has been shown to have real benefits on mental health, not to mention on academic outcomes too. Schools say that their students experience reduced stress, feel better in themselves and report they find it easier to focus on their studies too.
Learning outdoors will help children connect with their natural surroundings. It helps encourage them to enjoy spending time being active and outdoors, especially spending time away from screens.
We have particular expertise in designing and installing engaging educational environments for schools and nurseries up and down the UK. We can create an interactive playground that links with a school’s learning topics and targets, or we can create the perfect learning space too.
With the unpredictability of the UK weather, you have to be prepared for anything, so providing an undercover area is really important so that the outside space can be enjoyed by youngsters all year round, come sun, snow, wind or rain.
When choosing the location for your outdoor classroom, remember to consider how it will be accessed, especially in wet weather. Is it close enough to be convenient? Does it feel safe and secure and easily visible from your main buildings?
Ideally, you will be able to choose a location that is easy to access, in a sheltered place, on ground that drains easily. Having a seated area is often helpful so that chairs or benches don’t have to be carried in and out. Choosing some simple teaching aids, such as an old fashioned blackboard, that can be stationed outside permanently is also useful. Your outdoor space can also be designed with a sensory area and can be built to accommodate structured and unstructured learning too.
Check out our range of products here https://www.aceplay.co.uk/products/ and talk to us about creating an outdoor learning space by contacting us here https://www.aceplay.co.uk/contact/
