12 Basic Essentials for Outdoor Learning

It’s the summer term, the sun is out and, even though Outdoor Learning takes place all year round, this is the time when the more reluctant teacher ventures out of the classroom. I’ve been there, we all have.

I was asked what basics I thought should be hand for use outside. Good question. This is a list of the resources I think are easy difference makers. Easy to find and source. Low cost – High Impact. They can be used with children of any age, for a diverse variety of learning experiences in different curriculum areas.

It is not a perfect or complete list. I would encourage reflection and discussion. Each item has a variety of uses and applications. Use your imagination.

1. Chalk – Thin and Chunky
2. Tyres – All sizes.
3. Paint & Brushes – poster paint/watercolour
4. Mirrors & Magnifiers
5. Sticks & Canes
6. Wellies! (Oversized so children can wear over their shoes)
7. String, Thread & Ropes
8. Crates, Boxes and Baskets
9. Stones, Pebbles, Shells etc.
10. Bricks & Blocks – Real ones, not just plastic
11. Sink/Running Water/Hose/Pipes – plumbed or outside tap
12. Sand, Soil, Woodchips or Bark

@Wa tsEd Lincolnshire – Assistant Head Teacher

This is an article published in the May 2015 edition of UKEdMagazine. View the web edition freely by clicking here.

You need to Login or Register to bookmark/favorite this content.