After more than 12 months of development our interactive Outdoor Learning Map is now live!

At the time of writing, staff and children are in the process of returning to their schools after an absence of around 5 months, caused by the Coronavirus pandemic.  Although a return to school is not a return to full normality, it does signify a return to the pivotal role of schools’ in every child’s development, wellbeing and right to education.

Current Scottish Government advice emphasises the positive role that Outdoor Learning can play at this time.  The guidance states that the outdoors can provide extra space for distancing between consistent groups of learners, help to decrease the risk of transmission and improve the physical and mental health and wellbeing of young people.  This applies to school playgrounds, local greenspaces and community areas.

The pandemic and the measures put in place to control Coronavirus are likely to have had significant social, emotional and developmental effects on many young people.  Similarly, school staff have faced significant pressure during this time.  Support for all their mental health and wellbeing is essential during this period of adaptation and renewal, and we know that spending time in, and connecting with nature is one of the most effective ways of achieving this. 

We sincerely hope that the Outdoor Learning Map is an effective resource in allowing practitioners to share and learn ideas, resources and location, and we look forward to seeing you inspire and enable each other to make the most of the wonderful benefits that Outdoor Learning has to offer.