Beyond the classroom

Kevin Connolly, Forest School Leader at Bridgewater School, explores the significance of outdoor learning in nurturing holistic development.

When seen through a young person’s eyes, the world is a place of excitement and wonder. At Bridgewater School we see it that way too, which is why outdoor learning is an integral part of the education and development of all our pupils and why we continually look for ways in which our students can experience the world first-hand.

As educators, we have long-since understood the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of outdoor learning and the importance of providing holistic learning experiences. Academic attainment and the development of physical, social and communication skills can all be linked to learning beyond the walls of a conventional classroom. That is why we make sure that our pupils are immersed in the great outdoors from the word go. From the age of three we encourage children to embrace their wider environment with the extensive grounds of Drywood Hall, Bridgewater Forest School and adjacent Worsley Woods providing endless opportunities for learning and exploration. Here, interaction with the natural world is simply part of the weekly routine.

At Bridgewater School we firmly believe that giving children the tools and space to discover the world their way allows them to thrive. This child-centred approach fosters personal abilities and encourages initiative and independent thinking among students. Through play, exploration and active learning, we ignite their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. This is where Forest School really comes into its own.

Inspired by the Scandinavian education system, Forest School steps boldly out of the shadow and limitation of planned activities and ventures collaboratively into the realms of the unplanned, unexpected and unlimited. Forest School is a transformative journey that takes the classroom outdoors and uses woodland surroundings to enhance visual, oral and sensual learning experiences. By engaging all the senses, outdoor learning becomes incredibly powerful and memorable.

Our own thoughtfully crafted outdoor co-curricular programme complements classroom learning by nurturing social interaction, creativity, imagination, practical know-how and overall confidence. Within a controlled environment pupils are encouraged to take calculated risks and given the opportunity and responsibility to take the lead in their own learning. Here, teachers act as guides; creating an environment where children can make choices, solve problems and develop the self-confidence that they can succeed in whatever they do. This sets the stage for achievement in all aspects of school life.

Grounded in the belief that play is fundamental to the holistic development of every child, nature serves as the primary playground at Bridgewater Forest School. Sticks, leaves and rocks become tools for creativity and imagination. Every visit to the forest unfolds a new chapter in the students’ outdoor story, whether it involves den-building, weaving, creating mud sculptures or hunting for mini-beasts. Our play policy prioritises child-led learning, fostering spontaneous, inventive and intrinsically motivated activities.

This holistic approach cultivates a deep appreciation for the natural world, instilling a desire to understand, learn from and respect our environment through exploration and discovery within a rich, supportive and dynamic outdoor setting.

With evidence highlighting measurable socio-emotional, academic and wellbeing benefits of learning within natural environments, initiatives such as this are more important than ever. At Bridgewater School, we remain committed to providing an education that extends beyond the classroom, unlocking the full potential of every student through the transformative power of outdoor learning.

This article appears in the 2024 edition of John Catt's Preparatory Schools, which you can view here: