What does Ofsted say about outdoor learning?
Carolina Mohr
2025-05-21 17:55:00
Count answers: 1
Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education recognizes the value of outdoor learning, and they’re not alone either. From forest schools to outdoor adventures, there’s a growing appreciation for the benefits of learning in the great outdoors. Outdoor learning is not just about getting some fresh air; it’s about unlocking the power of nature and allowing children to explore, discover, and grow in a natural environment. Through outdoor learning, children can develop various essential skills, from problem-solving and critical thinking to confidence and resilience. For more about OFSTED and outdoor learning head to our vlog area.
Sydney Pacocha
2025-05-21 15:29:27
Count answers: 2
Ofsted has produced a number of case studies to demonstrate the importance of LOtC, and to help schools to develop LOtC opportunities. One of the key documents ‘Learning outside the classroom: How far should you go?’ used survey results from schools and educational establishments and examined LOtC in practice. When planned and implemented well, LOtC contributed significantly to raising standards and improving pupils’ personal, social and emotional development. Learning outside the classroom was most successful when it was an integral element of long-term curriculum planning and closely linked to classroom activities. The success of LOtc the classroom depended very much on the leadership of the schools and colleges. Also, a more recent study ‘Work on the Wild Side’ demonstrates that leading schools place high value on residential experiences. The report recommends that given the clear benefits of outdoor learning, more needs to be done to ensure that children and young people are provided with the opportunity to leave the classroom, to improve access for every child to an experience outside.
Rene Erdman
2025-05-21 14:15:53
Count answers: 4
Ofsted views learning outside the classroom as an essential element of a broad and balanced curriculum and are urging schools to make explicit reference to it in their self evaluation and other evidence presented during the inspection visit. Demonstrating a planned and integrated approach to LOtC has never been more relevant. In 2008, Ofsted published a report “Learning Outside the Classroom - how far should you go?” which found overwhelming evidence that LOtC contributes significantly to raising standards and the quality and depth of learning. Speaking at the CLOtC Annual Conference in November 2011, HMI Robin Hammerton said that the 2008 report into LOtC was the most compelling piece of evidence he has ever seen because in all cases the learning was improved and in all cases the young people benefited from the experience. Ofsted is clear that the more planned and integrated LOtC is, the more effective it is. LOtC should not be about a once a year school trip, but about frequent, continuous and progressive opportunities to learn outside the classroom that build on knowledge and skills gained during previous experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Ofsted recommends that schools evaluate the quality of learning outside the classroom to ensure that it has maximum impact on learners’ achievement, personal development and well-being.
Nelson Emmerich
2025-05-21 14:07:00
Count answers: 4
Ofsted views outdoor learning as a vital component of a child's education. Their reports highlight how learning outside the traditional classroom environment can foster children's overall development. Outdoor classrooms allow children to explore their surroundings, engage with nature, and develop various skills ranging from social interaction to problem-solving. According to Ofsted, activities outside the conventional classroom can improve motivation and increase student engagement. This, in turn, can lead to improved academic performance, making outdoor learning an influential aspect of the curriculum. In various inspections, Ofsted has observed numerous benefits from outdoor learning environments. Their findings show that schools implementing outdoor classrooms have reported many improvements, particularly in student behaviour and emotional well-being. Ofsted has made several recommendations regarding the incorporation of outdoor learning in schools. One of the primary suggestions is to ensure that outdoor classrooms are not just an isolated part of the curriculum but integrated into subjects across the board. Ofsted also emphasises the importance of planning learning outcomes when using outdoor classrooms.
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