Evidence from our work over the past 10 years shows that outdoor learning can help raise attainment, improve behaviour, build resilience and confidence, and make learning more accessible. There’s little doubt being outside increases wellbeing for children and staff. The following impacts are supported by our case studies & stories and evidenced by a growing body of international research.
Getting outside to learn with Grow to School helps:
Improve health and wellbeing
“Three-quarters of UK children spend less time outside than prison inmates”.
It is widely acknowledged that spending active time outdoors connecting with nature is essential for children’s physical and mental health. Our food growing and outdoor learning provide this valuable opportunity.
“The children love the sessions where they are learning outside. We can already see an impact on their self-esteem and mental health”.
Karen Coates, Head of School, St James Infants.
All these impacts are supported by our case studies & stories and evidenced by a growing body of international research.
Broaden the learning experience
Striking a balance between classroom learning and play based exploration, learning outside lends itself to an experiential, inquiry-based approach. By encouraging pupils to take on knowledge in other ways we broaden and strengthen the learning experience.
“The work currently underway to develop outdoor learning as an approach for all age groups, is capturing pupils’ interest and expanding their ways of learning.”
Evelyne Barrow Headteacher, St Aidan’s Primary.
Make learning more accessible
For children who struggle with classroom learning, we open up opportunities outside to engage in a way that can’t be achieved in the classroom.
“It is very noticeable during Grow to School sessions some children who struggle academically within the classroom thrive in the outdoors and excel in this type of learning”.
Rachel Littlewood, Teacher, St Thomas CE Primary.
Increase attainment
We can re-engage your class outside, provide physical challenges that refine motor skills and get the blood pumping. Research shows sharing knowledge in different environments leads to deeper more memorable learning experiences and long-term attainment in the classroom. (Quibell et al; 2017)
“Children’s attainment has increased in those who are less focused inside… They are developing their understanding in greater depth.”
Lucy Stoker, Reception Teacher, St Thomas CE Primary
Reduce the attainment gap
Socially disadvantaged children, despite ability, are more likely to struggle and stay as low achievers. We tap into practical skills, problem solving and lateral thinking. Children who achieve outdoors grow in confidence and succeed more in the classroom.
“Her sense of self belief and worth has grown, and she tries very hard in all her lessons”.
TA, Hyrstmount Junior School, Batley.
Build resilience
When tough situations arise, the ability to work out how best to respond and find a way through are essential life skills. Teamwork is integral to our sessions – making decisions together, arguing your case, fostering relationships, pushing boundaries and achieving more.
“It has been a real pleasure to see the children themselves ‘grow’ and deal with successes and knock backs”.
Dora Plant, Headteacher, Ashbrow Primary, Huddersfield.
Improve behaviour
Children’s behaviour can spiral out of control when they first go outside to learn. Our frequent and continuous outdoor learning lays down clear boundaries, helping children adjust, self-regulate and engage more; leading to improved behaviour back in the classroom (Marchant et al; 2019).
“The best bit of Grow was to see my class work together outdoors. It was wonderful to see the communication and teamwork”.
St Phillip’s CE Primary
Download the full document
Grow to School’s Theory of Change
Make the move to learning outside
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