Benefits of outdoor learning in primary schools

Research undertaken in schools in the UK and around the world has demonstrated the many benefits of consistent outdoor learning, from improving engagement with learning to developing interpersonal and gross motor skills.

NatureLab Outdoor Learning

Let us plan and deliver outdoor learning for your pupils, from one off workshops to ongoing partnerships, all delivered by a qualified primary school teacher and available across the North West.

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1) Wellbeing and mental health

Research shows that consistent outdoor learning improves wellbeing and reduces anxiety in primary school pupils. Spending time in nature connects children with the natural world and encourages them to care about its protection.

2) Behaviour and engagement with learning

Research shows that consistent outdoor learning improves engagement with learning and classroom behaviour, particularly for children who struggle to engage in the classroom.

Teachers report seeing a different side to the pupils they work with everyday, showcasing skills rarely seen in the classroom environment.

3) Teamwork and communication skills

Research shows that consistent outdoor learning is beneficial for developing pupils' interpersonal skills, including communication, teamwork and leadership. Outdoor learning sessions are filled with collaboration, with pupils working together to complete structured activities and unstructured play.

4) Concentration and attention in class

Research shows that consistent outdoor learning improves pupils' concentration and attention, not just during the outdoor learning lessons, but also when returning to the classroom.

5) Physical activity and gross motor skills

Less than half of UK children currently get the recommended 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Meeting this need, including through outdoor learning in schools, has never been more important.

Research shows that consistent outdoor learning improves pupils' gross motor skills, including strength, balance, agility and co-ordination, through engaging in physical activity.

6) Cross curricular learning opportunities

Opportunities for cross curricular outdoor learning are only limited by your imagination (and ours)!

From exploring the changing seasons in science, to generating adjectives for what you can see and feel outdoors in English, to mandala art using natural materials, the possibilities are endless.

NatureLab Outdoor Learning

Let us plan and deliver outdoor learning for your pupils, from one off workshops to ongoing partnerships, all delivered by a qualified primary school teacher and available across the North West.

Learn More

References for more information

Passy, R., & Blackwell, I. (2022). Natural Connections: Learning about outdoor-based learning 

Natural England (2016). Natural Connections Demonstration Project (summary and outputs) 

Natural England (2012). School Leader and Teacher Insights into Learning Outside the Classroom 

Marchant, E. et al. (2019). Curriculum-based outdoor learning for children aged 9–11: A qualitative analysis of pupils’ and teachers’ views

Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (2022). Summary of Evidence: Learning Outside the Classroom in Natural Environments. 

Natural England (2022). Links between natural environments, learning and health: Evidence briefing

Natural England (2022). Social and economic benefits of learning in natural environments