Greening the Curriculum: How Schools Can Embrace Environmental Learning into Outdoor Programmes

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In today’s world, fostering environmental awareness and sustainability is no longer just an option; it’s a necessity. Schools now play a crucial role in shaping the attitudes and behaviours of future generations towards the environment. One powerful way to instill these values is through outdoor learning programmes that immerse pupils in nature while teaching them about environmental stewardship and awareness. At The Hideout House Company Ltd, we specialize in providing eco-friendly products for UK schools, and we’re passionate about helping educators incorporate environmental learning into their own outdoor programmes. Here’s some examples how schools can embrace environmental education into their outdoor curriculum:

  1. Create Outdoor Classrooms and Shelters: Outdoor classrooms provide a unique setting for hands-on learning experiences. Schools can designate areas on their grounds for outdoor lessons, equipped with benches, whiteboards, and eco-friendly materials. Our eco friendly materials incorporate solar powered water irrigation systems linked to planters and roof guttering, solar panels and wind turbines linked to monitoring boards and systems, dynamo bikes the children have pedal (or hand cranks to turn)to create power and sedum covered roofs. These spaces offer opportunities for exploring various environmental concepts, from biodiversity and ecosystems and rainwater harvesting to renewable energy and conservation.
  2. Gardening and Sustainable Agriculture: Establishing school gardens not only teaches students about plant life cycles and ecosystems but also instills a sense of responsibility for caring for living things. Schools can incorporate lessons on organic gardening practices, composting, and water conservation. Students can also learn about the importance of locally sourced food and the impact of food miles on the environment.
  3. Eco friendly play equipment: We have a unique range of play equipment which is made out of recycled plastic (mainly from recycled plastic milk containers). Not only is this environmentally friendly and low maintenance, it can also be incorporated into children understanding the recycling loop and recycling-into-action programmes.
  4. Environmental Projects: Encourage pupils to take action through environmental projects that address real-world issues. Whether it’s organizing a litter clean-up around the school and its local streets, planting trees to combat deforestation, or implementing a recycling programme at school, hands-on projects empower students to make a positive impact in their community. These initiatives not only foster environmental stewardship but also develop valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  5. Outdoor Workshops and Demonstrations: Invite guest speakers, environmental experts, or local artisans to conduct workshops and demonstrations outdoors. From renewable energy technologies like solar panels and wind turbines to traditional crafts using natural materials, these interactive sessions expose students to innovative solutions and traditional practices that promote sustainability.
  6. Wildlife Nature Habitat Enhancement: Transform school grounds into wildlife-friendly habitats by creating areas that attract native species. Planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers provides food and shelter for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Schools can also install bird feeders, bat boxes, and insect/bug hotels to encourage biodiversity and ecological balance.
  7. Citizen Science Initiatives: Engage the children in citizen science initiatives that contribute to ongoing research efforts. By participating in projects such as bird counts, biodiversity surveys, or water quality monitoring, students can collect data that scientists use to better understand and protect the environment. Citizen science not only promotes scientific literacy but also fosters a sense of connection to the natural world.

By integrating environmental learning into outdoor programs, schools can inspire a new generation of eco-conscious citizens who are equipped to tackle the environmental challenges of the future. At The Hideout House Company Ltd, we’re committed to supporting schools in their efforts to promote environmental awareness and sustainability. Together, we can nurture a generation of environmental stewards who will work towards a greener, more sustainable future.

For more information, please contact the Hideout House Company on 01832 275902 or email info@hideouthouse.com and we can go through with you some case studies where we have worked with schools to promote their environmental learning programmes