Learning Outside the Classroom
Intent
At Chaigeley School, Learning Outside the Classroom is a key part of our curriculum and therapeutic approach. As a specialist SEMH school, we recognise that many of our pupils thrive through practical, hands-on experiences that take learning beyond the classroom. Outdoor learning provides opportunities for pupils to develop confidence, resilience, communication and independence within a safe, supportive environment.
Our Forest School programme enables pupils to build positive relationships, improve emotional regulation and experience success through child-centred, nature-based learning. We encourage pupils to explore, take managed risks, solve problems and develop a greater understanding of themselves, others and the natural world.
As pupils move through the school, outdoor learning experiences become increasingly challenging and independent, equipping them with valuable life skills and preparing them for future education, employment and adult life.
Implementation
Key Stage 2 – Forest School
All pupils in Key Stage 2 take part in regular Forest School sessions, providing opportunities for pupils to learn through practical, hands-on experiences within a natural environment. Forest School supports pupils’ social, emotional and mental health by creating a safe space where they can explore, develop confidence and build positive relationships.
Through Forest School, pupils have opportunities to:
Explore and connect with the natural environment.
Develop confidence through child-led activities and exploration.
Build resilience by overcoming challenges and trying new experiences.
Develop teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills.
Develop emotional regulation through engaging with nature and outdoor activities.
Learn practical outdoor skills, including shelter building, woodland crafts and safe tool use.
Take managed risks and develop independence in a supportive environment.
Key Stage 3 – Forest School
All pupils in Key Stage 3 continue to access Forest School, building on the foundations developed during Key Stage 2. Sessions are designed to further develop independence, practical skills and personal responsibility whilst supporting pupils’ emotional wellbeing.
Pupils take part in a range of progressive activities, including:
Fire lighting and outdoor cooking.
Bushcraft skills and woodland crafts.
Safe use of tools and equipment.
Environmental projects and conservation activities.
Navigation and outdoor problem-solving challenges.
Team-building activities that develop leadership and communication.
Practical tasks that encourage resilience, perseverance and independence.
Key Stage 4 – Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
A key part of our Outdoor Education offer is the delivery of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme during Key Stage 4. Pupils have the opportunity to select DofE as an option choice, providing them with the chance to participate in a recognised programme that develops essential skills for life beyond school.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award supports pupils to develop independence, resilience, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills through a range of purposeful activities. Pupils are supported to work towards completing the full award or individual sections, depending on their personal pathway and needs.
The four sections of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are:
Volunteering
Developing responsibility and contributing positively to the local community through helping others.
Physical
Encouraging pupils to improve their health, fitness, confidence and perseverance through physical activities.
Skills
Developing personal interests, practical abilities and new skills that support independence and future opportunities.
Expedition
Building teamwork, resilience and adventure skills through planning and completing outdoor journeys.
Through Outdoor Education, Forest School and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Chaigeley School provides pupils with opportunities to challenge themselves, recognise their strengths and develop the skills and confidence needed for their next steps beyond school.
The DofE programme is offered as part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum options, allowing pupils who choose this pathway to engage in a structured programme of personal development, achievement and preparation for adult life.
Impact
At Chaigeley School, Learning Outside the Classroom has a positive impact on pupils’ personal, social, emotional and physical development. Through Forest School, outdoor learning and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, pupils are provided with opportunities to develop skills, confidence and independence in a supportive and practical environment.
Pupils who engage in outdoor learning demonstrate:
Improved self-esteem, confidence, communication and resilience
Stronger and more positive relationships with peers and staff
Increased independence, motivation and engagement in learning
Improved physical activity, emotional wellbeing and mental health
Greater ability to manage challenges, take appropriate risks and solve problems
Development of practical life skills and teamwork
Increased independence and responsibility through real-world experiences
Improved readiness for future opportunities, including Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, further education, employment and life beyond school
Enhanced cultural capital, through opportunities to experience new environments, activities and communities
Progress is monitored through ongoing staff observation, pupil voice and reflection, and baseline skill assessment. This allows staff to recognise individual progress and identify appropriate next steps.
At Chaigeley School, success is measured not only through the acquisition of new skills, but also through the development of confidence, resilience, independence and positive attitudes towards challenge. Pupils are supported to progress at their own pace, with achievements celebrated and recognised throughout their Learning Outside the Classroom journey.
Sports Leadership
