Outdoor Learning at Aurora Hedgeway School

This Outdoor Classroom Day, we’re excited to share Aurora Hedgeway School’s love of outdoor learning. Over the past few weeks, pupils have enjoyed time spent in nature and the benefits of learning outside the classroom.

From Seed to Plate

One of the highlights of Hedgeway School’s outdoor learning has been the vegetable garden. Pupils have nurtured lettuces from tiny seeds to healthy plants, and the fruits (or rather, vegetables!) of their labour are making their way into the school kitchen. The homegrown lettuces are being harvested by the school chefs to make salads to go alongside lunch.

Willow Sculptures

Creativity has also flourished while pupils have spent more time outdoors. They have been busy creating sculptures from willow ready for the school’s summer fair. The project has given pupils a chance to unleash their creativity and artistic selves! These natural works of art will be displayed at the fair for all to enjoy.

Bug Hotels

Hedgeway School’s outdoor learning also supports local wildlife. Students have made bug hotels providing safe havens for insects that inhabit the school grounds. This hands-on project gives students a sense of responsibility for caring for the environment.

The Benefits of Outdoor Learning

According to #OutdoorClassroomDay outside learning offers more than just fresh air—it develops key life skills, enhances engagement, and supports physical and mental health. Here are some of the benefits of learning outside:

1. Skill Development: Practical activities like gardening, building, and crafting help develop skills such as teamwork and problem-solving.

2. Environmental Understanding: Hands-on interaction with nature gives a better understanding of our impact on the world and encourages environmental stewardship.

3. Enhanced Engagement: The physical and interactive nature of outdoor learning keeps students more engaged and motivated.

4. Health Benefits: Regular time spent outdoors is linked to improved physical health and mental wellbeing.

As we celebrate #OutdoorClassroomDay, Aurora Hedgeway School shows how learning outside can enrich pupils’ learning experience in many ways. Here’s to many more seasons of learning and growing together in the great outdoors!

 

Aurora Hedgeway School offers a flexible, inclusive education and a positive, vibrant learning community, for children and young people aged 7-19 with a primary or secondary diagnosis of Autism and related social and communication needs.