Eco-Schools and Learning Outside the Classroom
Often it is outside the classroom that children have their most memorable learning experiences. Such experiences help children make sense of the world around them and can lead to a deeper understanding of concepts that span traditional subject boundaries and which are frequently difficult to teach effectively using classroom methods alone. Improving young people’s understanding, skills, values and personal development can significantly enhance learning and achievement.
The following are some of the common places outside the classroom where learning can take place:
- Schools grounds offer excellent opportunities for both formal and informal learning. An Eco-School may decide to turn part of its grounds into a wildlife garden and in doing so pupils will learn about natural habitats. School buildings also provide a useful learning resource, i.e. in monitoring energy, waste or water use as part of the Environmental Review.
- The local environment contains a wealth of learning opportunities that can enrich all aspects of the curriculum. For instance, streetscapes, shops, businesses, local government buildings/facilities (such as courts, police stations, landfill sites), heritage sites and places of worship.
- Places further afield provide more distant and challenging learning experiences. For example, visits to urban and rural places that contrast with the local environment; field study and environmental centres; farms and gardens; places that reflect the world of commerce and technology or politics.
- Residential places offer a powerful way of developing life skills, building confidence, self-esteem, communication and team working. For instance, setting up an exchange visit with an Eco-School abroad or taking part in an expedition.
