Outdoor Learning

Why Outdoor Learning Matters

Our outdoor learning programme reflects our commitment to helping children grow into well-rounded individuals who appreciate the natural world, respect their community, and excel in diverse areas of learning. Through these experiences, our pupils build resilience, develop critical thinking, and connect classroom knowledge to the world around them, preparing them for the challenges of a changing future.

Outdoor Learning at Our School

Nestled in the stunning rural community of Pembrokeshire, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful coastline of Tenby, our school embraces the unique opportunities our location provides for outdoor learning. The natural environment is a rich and inspiring classroom, offering pupils meaningful, hands-on experiences that enhance their mental and physical well-being while deepening their connection to the world around them.

Outdoor learning is a cornerstone of our approach to the Curriculum for Wales. It supports the development of ambitious, capable learners, healthy, confident individuals, enterprising, creative contributors, and ethical, informed citizens. By weaving outdoor learning into all areas of the curriculum, we help children apply their knowledge and skills in practical, real-world contexts.

Enhancing Our Outdoor Spaces

With the help of our supportive community, we have recently transformed our outdoor learning environment to further inspire our pupils:

  • Plant Beds: Each class cares for their own bed, fostering responsibility and pride while enhancing their understanding of plants and ecosystems.
  • Reading Chair: This dedicated outdoor reading space encourages a love of literature in a calm and natural setting, supporting literacy and well-being.
  • Mud Kitchen: Creative play in the mud kitchen stimulates imagination, problem-solving, and fine motor skills.
  • Class 1 Outdoor Extension: This new outdoor area enhances opportunities for experiential learning and imaginative play for our youngest learners.

Additionally, through collaboration with Swansea City Primary Stars, pupils in Classes 2 and 3 recently completed pond maintenance work. This practical activity taught care for wildlife habitats, teamwork, and perseverance.

 

Activities & Benefits

Our pupils engage in a wide range of outdoor activities designed to develop essential skills and foster curiosity:

  • Minibeast Hunts: Exploring habitats builds observational skills and scientific inquiry, fostering curiosity about biodiversity and ecosystems
  • Gardening: Each class tends to its own plant beds, learning responsibility, teamwork, and sustainability while developing a practical understanding of life cycles and food production
  • Litter Picks: These teach children the importance of community stewardship and environmental responsibility, empowering them to take action for a cleaner, greener world
  • Pond Dipping: Investigating pond life develops classification skills, patience, and a deeper appreciation for aquatic ecosystems.
  • Art and Writing Inspired by Nature: Using the outdoors as a stimulus nurtures creativity, self-expression, and mindfulness

We also enrich our curriculum through educational trips that connect pupils to the wider natural environment:

  • ‘Source to Sea’ with the National Park: This hands-on exploration of the water cycle allows pupils to see the interconnectedness of natural systems while reinforcing geography and science skills
  • Skomer Island Visit: Observing wildlife like puffins and seals inspires a sense of wonder, enhances understanding of conservation, and links directly to learning about habitats and biodiversity