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Writer's pictureSaranya D/O Vasudevan
Sep 42 min read

Unlock the Magic of Outdoor Learning!

It feels amazing to step outside. It's stimulating, uplifting, and a wonderful way to re-establish connection with nature and escape the stresses of everyday life. What about when it comes to education? What are the main advantages of teaching and learning outside? The benefits of outdoor learning include enhanced child development, improved mental health and wellness, strengthened connections to nature, and more inclusive and enjoyable learning.


A group of children are gathered on a wooden deck overlooking a body of water surrounded by lush green trees, likely in a natural setting such as a park or nature reserve. The children, wearing various hats, backpacks, and casual outdoor clothing, seem to be engaged in a learning activity, some holding clipboards and writing tools. The sky above is partly cloudy with patches of blue visible. The scene suggests an outdoor educational trip, possibly related to environmental studies or nature observation.

‘‘We know that many pupils thrive when learning outside and that this shift in environment (and a practical approach) can actually help certain concepts come alive and be easier to understand,” says Mary Jackson, Head of Education and Communities at Learning through Landscapes. Learning outside isn't a needless extra; rather, it's a method to help kids retain knowledge by exposing them to concepts in a fresh and engaging way.


A group of children is walking along a paved path through a lush, green forested area. The children, dressed in casual clothing and wearing hats, are carrying clipboards, suggesting they are on an educational outing. They appear to be focused on observing their surroundings, with some looking around while others write notes. The pathway is surrounded by trees and dense foliage, creating a serene and immersive natural environment. The children seem to be part of an organized outdoor learning activity, possibly related to nature study or environmental science.

It offers useful, real-world experiences—the kind that kids really absorb. In addition to teaching whole new skills, these stimulating activities can improve collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities while smoothly integrating into the curriculum. This means that it helps teachings stick by encouraging a sincere interest in the subject matter that goes much beyond what a young learner may learn from a textbook.


By moving away from regimented seating plans and standard classroom-based learning, children can embrace a greater sense of freedom and independence: essential contributors to their development and learning.


A group of children is walking along a paved path through a lush, green forested area. The children, dressed in casual clothing and wearing hats, are carrying clipboards, suggesting they are on an educational outing. They appear to be focused on observing their surroundings, with some looking around while others write notes. The pathway is surrounded by trees and dense foliage, creating a serene and immersive natural environment. The children seem to be part of an organized outdoor learning activity, possibly related to nature study or environmental science.

Studies have even indicated that learning outside enhances self-esteem, social abilities, motivation, communication, physical skills, knowledge, and comprehension. It has also been demonstrated to improve kids' attitudes toward learning, cooperative skills, self-worth, and confidence. It is an essential and transformational aspect of childhood, not simply a nice-to-have anymore.


A group of children is walking along a paved path through a lush, green forested area. The children, dressed in casual clothing and wearing hats, are carrying clipboards, suggesting they are on an educational outing. They appear to be focused on observing their surroundings, with some looking around while others write notes. The pathway is surrounded by trees and dense foliage, creating a serene and immersive natural environment. The children seem to be part of an organized outdoor learning activity, possibly related to nature study or environmental science.

At Astor, students go on field trips at least twice a term. And teachers also incorporate outdoor  lessons. This way, students are seen reaping the benefits of outdoor learning, moving beyond the 4 walls of the classroom. 


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