Celebrate Outdoor Classroom Day

Think about the last time you saw a child grinning wildly, bursting with excitement, and eager to explore. Chances are they were outside in the playground at break time, not sitting in class trying to grasp a new mathematical concept. But what if you could harness the same energy for both? What if that distant concept became a real-life example embodied in a tree, a rock, or a pond?

Outdoor Classroom Day is a global campaign to celebrate and inspire learning and play outside the classroom!

2024 Dates: May 23 & November 7

Outdoor Learning

The practice of outdoor learning is not a new one and there is evidence from around the world that shows the powerful impact it has on students and teachers:

• 97% of teachers say outdoor play is critical for children to reach their full potential.
• 88% of teachers say that children are happier after playing outdoors.
• 88% of teachers say that children are more engaged in learning when taking lessons outdoors.
• 86% of teachers say that playing outdoors gives children a better understanding of the environment.
• 44% of teachers have increased outdoor learning since getting involved in Outdoor Classroom Day.*

If you have ever taken learning outside, even just once, you don’t need the statistics. You’ve seen it, felt it, lived it. Back in 2011, Anna Portch felt it too, so strongly that she founded the Outdoor Classroom Day movement to inspire and encourage more schools to give outdoor learning a go. From there, it has grown into an international campaign — almost 10 million children have taken part in the days of action so far.

If you’re new to outdoor learning and providing enriched playtimes, why not use the day to give it a go? Or if they are part of your normal week, why not use the day to celebrate what you’re doing already and encourage other schools in your area to join in? Whatever you decide to do, get started on your outdoor adventure on Outdoor Classroom Day and prepare to be amazed.

*Source: Muddy Hands Report, 2018.

Join the global movement today by signing up your class — or whole school — at www.outdoorclassroomday.org.uk

Outdoor Classroom Day Resources

• Click here to browse ideas and tips for making outdoor learning and play a part of every day. Activities include mud play, recycled planters, seed bombs, and journey sticks.

• Download 3 FREE Activity Cards from the popular Kids’ Garden Deck.