The choices for learning outside the classroom are endless but need to be informed by what you want learners to achieve. The following are provided as initial ways of thinking about where learning could take place and are not intended as concrete examples:
Social and personal development
Residential experiences often provide unique opportunities for social living and development for all ages
might be suited to situations where problem solving, exploration, adventure activities and personal challenge are involved. For younger children, these might be provided in places closer to school/home. As young people develop and mature, so does their need for further challenges; visiting wilder places can provide this necessary adventure and be inspiring. Residential experiences often provide unique opportunities for social living and development for all ages. Often overlooked are the opportunities for young people in rural areas to explore urban environments.
Scientific and mathematical understanding
might be more suited to situations where fieldwork, investigation, practical skills and research are involved. For younger children these might be provided in the school grounds and the local urban or rural environment. These are also suitable for older learners, but activities undertaken further afield can have a marked impact on learning; examples are visits to a heritage venue, farm, museum, field study or environmental centre.
The development of artistic and creative skills
might be suited to situations where they can be practised in inspirational settings such as galleries, heritage sites or areas of natural beauty. School grounds can be a showcase for pupil artwork. The positive impacts on young people’s motivation, emotional and social well-being are well documented through visits to museums, for example.
Whereas in some circumstances observational or ‘look-see’ activities are appropriate, research has shown that young people enjoy subjects and activities where the curriculum involves participation and has practical application*. Therefore your choice of where to go will be influenced by the availability of active, ‘hands-on’ and practical learning opportunities.
* Pupils’ experiences and perspectives of the National Curriculum and assessment: research review , NFER
** Richard Louv (2006) Last Child in the Woods, Algonquin Books