The benefits of outdoor learning in autumn

When it comes to inspiring pupils and getting them to explore new ideas, there are few better backdrops than autumn. The changing colours and hopefully mild weather is the perfect time for both pupils and teachers to get out of the classroom and into the great outdoors.

Whether you choose to keep your outdoor learning to the playground, or you go further afield, in the south east we are spoilt for choice of locations for outside classrooms. Below we’re exploring the benefits of outdoor learning and providing you with some ideas of how you can engage your pupils during those autumn days spent learning outside, and how easily these locations can be accessed through reliable school coach transportation.


The benefits of outdoor learning
 

Getting into the great outdoors has a plethora of benefits for pupils and teachers alike. Alongside keeping pupils more engaged, outdoor learning can benefit pupils’ health, social skills and behaviour.

The Natural Connections project, a piece of research commissioned by Natural England back in 2016, discovered that learning outdoors has multiple benefits for both pupils and teachers. 92% of pupils stated that they enjoyed lessons more when they were outdoors whilst 79% of teachers claimed that teaching outdoors helped improve their teaching practice and increased motivation. This research makes it clear that heading outdoors for learning is key for the wellbeing of both pupils and teachers.


Making the most of autumn for outdoor lessons

The mild weather, changing colours and falling leaves makes being outdoors in autumn the perfect environment for lessons of all subjects. It also has the benefit of being at the beginning of the academic year, meaning longer trips do not impact exams and pupils can kick start the school year feeling motivated and inspired.


Outdoor learning for early years
 

For younger pupils, the outdoors in autumn provides the perfect opportunity for sensory engagement, imaginative play and learning foundational skills. Pupils can use natural materials such as leaves, twigs and conkers to create artwork or language skills can be practiced by describing things that they can see, touch or smell.

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest in Kent is home to one of the world’s best conifer collections and is a perfect location for a creative outdoor classroom for younger pupils. You can choose to take a guided visit from one of the team, or use your own imagination and have a self-guided visit.


Outdoor learning for key stage 3
 

Once pupils are coming into the later years of primary school, outdoor lessons could focus on developing descriptive skills or translating observations into artistic forms to build confidence and increase understanding. Pupils could write short stories, draw what they see or work together to create short scenes.

Portchester Castle in Hampshire is a mostly outdoors location for a school trip that is the perfect location for an autumnal school trip for those in years 3-6. You can choose from a free self-guided visit, or you can pay for an expert-led discovery visit.


Outdoor learning for key stage 3 & 4
 

For older pupils, there is lots of opportunity to build confidence and get children out of their comfort zones through outdoor learning. Taking pupils on a residential trip filled with exciting outdoor activities and the opportunity to unplug can support this.

Newforest Outdoor Centre is an ideal venue for a class residential trip. Pupils will get the unique opportunity of sleeping in shepherds huts, bell tents or under the stars under a tarp bivy whilst spending a few days off-grid. The centre is host to many exciting activities where pupils are actively involved in the activities that they take part in so they are learning whilst having fun.


Coach hire for outdoor autumn learning

Travelling by coach is often the most effective for school trips. It allows the group to travel together and is often a cost-effective option.

At Readybus, we pride ourselves on providing school trip transport that you can trust. Our coaches are modern, comfortable and well-maintained with each having essential safety features to ensure safety on school trips and our drivers are all experienced and DBS-checked. Giving you peace of mind as a school trip organiser that your transport needs are taken care of is our top priority. Learn more about our fleet of coaches and minibuses and book your outdoor learning transport with us today.