In an increasingly sedentary world where we are all more engaged inside with technology than, perhaps, we should be, it’s important to recognise the benefits of keeping young people engaged with their natural environment through outdoor learning.
At Downside, our curriculum and co-curriculum provide pupils with plenty of opportunities to engage in positive ways with the natural world; opportunities that build confidence, resilience, vital life skills – such as sharing resources and working together – physical wellbeing, creativity and problem-solving skills. [example from Dave] Learning outside also reminds us about the importance of educating ourselves about the natural environment. To experience the wonder of nature is to appreciate it and, therefore, to care about keeping it safe for future generations.
On the Downside curriculum, as well as Games, outdoor learning is a welcome part of other timetabled lessons. For example, young artists are inspired by sketching parts of the School’s beautiful grounds, and scientists enjoy surveying the many plants that we have on site.
On the co-curriculum, the options for outdoor learning are just as varied and aim to cater for all types of skills and interests: golf, cricket nets, CCF (Combined Cadet Force), Duke of Edinburgh, archery, kayaking, gardening, mountain biking, paddle sport and Ten Tors, for example.
Many of the School’s outdoor learning options can be done on-site, as we are fortunate to occupy a spacious 500-acre rural campus. The grounds offer plenty of space to run about as well as – for older pupils – to do exam revision, should they wish, surrounded by the beauty of the Somerset countryside.
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