There must be provision for the child to have contact with nature; to understand and appreciate the order, the harmony and the beauty in nature.”

Maria Montessori

 

INTENT

At Barnburgh Primary Academy, our intent is to provide all children with regular, high-quality outdoor learning experiences that support their physical, social, emotional and academic development. Through purposeful and well-planned outdoor activities, children are encouraged to explore, investigate, take risks safely and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Outdoor learning is designed to promote curiosity, creativity and resilience, while supporting wellbeing, teamwork and communication skills. We aim to use the outdoor environment to enhance learning across the curriculum, foster a love of nature, and develop children’s independence and confidence, preparing them to become active, healthy and responsible learners.

 

Our Core Values provide the platform on which we have built our curriculum offer at Barnburgh Primary School. Our Outdoor Learning curriculum is underpinned by our Core Values in the following ways;

 

COURAGE: We teach our children to show courage in Outdoor Learning by encouraging them to explore new environments, try unfamiliar activities, and embrace challenges in nature. Whether climbing, investigating wildlife, or using new tools, they learn to take safe risks and step outside their comfort zone with confidence. 

 

PERSEVERANCE: We teach our children perseverance in Outdoor Learning by guiding them to keep going when tasks become difficult. From building shelters to completing team challenges or navigating outdoor spaces, they learn that persistence and problem‑solving help them overcome obstacles and achieve success.

 

AMBITION: We teach our children ambition in Outdoor Learning by inspiring them to set exciting goals and challenge themselves physically, mentally, and creatively. By encouraging them to attempt new skills, lead group activities, and push their boundaries, we help them believe in their potential and strive for personal growth.

 

RESPECT: We teach our children respect in Outdoor Learning by helping them appreciate and care for the natural world. They learn to protect wildlife, look after outdoor spaces, and use equipment responsibly. Through teamwork and shared experiences, they also develop respect for others’ ideas, efforts, and safety.

 

INDEPENDENCE: We teach our children independence in Outdoor Learning by giving them opportunities to make decisions, solve real‑world problems, and take ownership of their actions. From choosing tools to planning approaches to tasks, they build confidence, self‑reliance, and the ability to think for themselves.

 

Please find the outdoor learning progression document below. This is a working document.