In a recent report, it was found that the opportunity for students to benefit from spending time in nature is currently a lottery, depending on various factors such as school year group, size, location, and affluence of the catchment area. The report highlights the importance of integrating nature into the curriculum for both students and teachers, as it can have positive effects on physical health, mental wellbeing, and education quality.
One key aspect emphasized in the report is that being in nature not only benefits pupils, but it also helps teachers by increasing job satisfaction and enhancing teaching practice. Case studies of schools successfully integrating nature into their curriculum are included in the report, along with practical advice on how more schools can follow suit. The aim is for all schools to provide regular nature experiences, with charities playing a key role in making this vision a reality.
Opportunities for students to experience nature at school can take place during lessons, free time, school trips, extra-curricular activities, and clubs. However, less than a third of UK schools have outdoor learning embedded into their curriculum for all students. Embedding outdoor learning into the curriculum ensures that nature is incorporated into students’ learning provision.
Access to nature during free time at school requires either a natural environment onsite or the introduction of natural elements. Unfortunately, half of schools in the UK report that none of their pupils have daily opportunities to spend free time in a nature-rich environment. While school trips and extra-curricular activities involving nature are important, they are infrequent and optional, potentially exacerbating existing disparities based on education phase and socio-economic factors.
Research shows that spending time in nature has numerous benefits for children, teachers, and the environment. For children, connecting with nature through outdoor learning can improve mental wellbeing, increase resilience, and boost self-esteem. It can also lead to improved education outcomes, as students are more motivated and less stressed when learning in a natural setting. Teachers also benefit from outdoor learning, with positive impacts on their health, teaching practice, and job satisfaction.
In addition to the benefits for individuals, learning in nature plays a crucial role in fostering a relationship with the natural world and promoting conservation efforts. With the UK being among the most nature-depleted countries, it is essential for the next generation to develop a connection with nature through education.
This article was based on a press release from WWF and is written by Brendan Montague, editor of The Ecologist. It highlights the importance of integrating nature into school curricula to ensure that all students have the opportunity to benefit from spending time in nature.
