Outdoor learning scheme of work for children

Make Outdoor Learning Simple and Stress-Free

Many teachers want to take their class outside more often but don’t have the time to plan. The Educate Outside Scheme of Work is designed to change that. It offers 30 fully planned outdoor lessons for each primary year group (Reception to Year 6), plus bonus activities, making it easier than ever to give your students meaningful outdoor experiences every week.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, outdoor learning coordinator, or homeschool parent, this scheme provides step-by-step outdoor lesson plans that can be used in most outdoor spaces.

Why Outdoor Learning Should Be a Weekly Habit

Outdoor education is more than a one-off nature walk. Research shows that consistent outdoor time:

  • Improves focus, confidence, and resilience.
  • Supports mental health and reduces classroom stress.
  • Builds curiosity and a connection to nature.
  • Encourages creativity and hands-on exploration.

By embedding outdoor lessons into your weekly routine, you give students the chance to develop key life skills, not just academic ones.

What’s Included in This Outdoor Learning Scheme of Work

This scheme is built for busy teachers who want to get outside without adding hours of planning. Each year group pack includes:

  • 30 ready-to-use outdoor lessons carefully designed for primary-aged learners.
  • 8 flexible bonus lessons for extra opportunities to explore and reflect.
  • Printable worksheets and activity cards to support every lesson.
  • Clear, step-by-step instructions so you can teach confidently outdoors.

You don’t need forest school training or specialist equipment. The goal is to make outdoor learning accessible for every teacher, every school, and every child.

Outdoor learning ideas for children

Focused on Experience, Not Tick Boxes

This scheme isn’t designed to map perfectly to curriculum checklists. Instead, it prioritises hands-on learning and meaningful experiences that develop creativity, curiosity, and well-being. The lessons integrate natural exploration, teamwork, and play-based activities while still reinforcing core skills like literacy, numeracy, and science inquiry.

Who This Scheme Is For

This outdoor learning resource is perfect for:

  • Primary/elementary school teachers who want regular outdoor lessons without extra planning.
  • Outdoor learning leads or schools looking to embed outdoor education in their culture.
  • Homeschooling parents seeking a full year of engaging outdoor activities.

Why Teachers Love It

Teachers using this scheme have shared how easy it is to follow, even if you’re not confident outdoors. Lessons are designed to be:

  • Quick to set up with minimal prep.
  • Engaging for all learners, including those who struggle indoors.
  • Flexible and adaptable for mixed-age or SEN groups.

Why This Matters Now

Outdoor education has never been more important for children’s well-being and development. With this scheme, you’ll have the confidence and resources to take your class outside every week, all year round.

Get involved with our Outdoor Learning Scheme of Work here.

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