Outdoor learning at Springfield
At Springfield, we consider spending time outside is really important so we try to take our learning outdoors when we can. For many children, being outside provides a chance to fully engage with their learning and improves their health. It also allows them to develop a greater connection with nature and in turn create a sense of wellbeing. For the first time this year, we took part in a global movement to promote and celebrate learning outside called 'Outdoor Classroom Day' and we hope to join in with future campaigns as it was a huge hit with the children across the school.
We are very lucky at Springfield to have lots of different kinds of spaces which support all areas of the curriculum. The copse contains equipment for exercise, roleplay and team building. The large open field is used for many activities and the all-weather track that now runs around the perimeter is great for running the daily mile or taking a stroll for a walk and talk session which develops good health and communication skills at the same time! There are other areas which are utilised for outdoor learning including the wooded area which runs the length of the field, the pond area and both Key Stage 1 & 2 playgrounds.
The children in Foundation Stage are very fortunate as not only do they take part in weekly Monkey-Do sessions (learning outdoors) but learn outside daily during every workshop session. This enables the children to develop the very important gross motor skills as well as accessing other activities that are linked to our topic along with maths, reading and writing activities. Year 1 continue the theme with 'Fresh Air Friday', taking their learning outside for the morning session on a Friday. The children play different active games covering Science, Maths and Phonics. For the rest of the school, the teachers take the children outside to learn about different subjects including Drama linking to class texts, Maths and Science. This gives them an opportunity to use and apply their skills in context and promotes a 'finding out and exploring' culture within Springfield. As our motto states, ‘Born Curious, Stay Curious’.
