Outdoor Learning and Community - Subject Intent

Silverwood School believes outdoor and community learning are a pedagogical approach to delivering our broad and diverse curriculum.  Outdoor learning and community is a cross-curricular area and draws from many other parts of the Silverwood curriculum while having the school’s values at its core.

Outdoor Learning and community aims to promote engagement and learning so our pupils can be actively involved in their own learning and develop respect for their environment and local community by allowing them to experience the world around them. Outdoor Learning and community will improve our students' social, mental and physical well-being. By embedding Outdoor and Community Learning in the curriculum we give our students regular opportunities to engage with their local communities, local environment and nature to provide experiential learning opportunities allowing pupils to respond positively to situations, challenges and responsibilities, to manage risk and develop the ability to deal with uncertainty. 

​Learning outside will provide a wide range of sensory opportunities and will also provide a bridge to higher-order learning while nurturing creativity and providing opportunities for informal learning through play and exploration.  Through well-planned and curriculum-linked visits into the community, pupils will develop their independence, have the opportunity to be part of their community and make links to help prepare them for adulthood.