The school environment is forever evolving thanks to the introduction of new technology and teaching methods. There is no doubting that the world of teaching is a fast-moving one, and an area of interest that has boomed over recent years is that of where to teach children. As a result, the outdoor classroom is now an integral part of the school day. Below, we explore the many reasons why outdoor classrooms really are the future of education.

The natural environment is good for health

The biggest reason for moving learning outdoors and using an outdoor classroom is that it helps to improve the physical and mental health of children. When children learn outside, they are more active, their blood is pumping and they are breathing in fresh air. They are also closer to the natural environment, listening to bird song and learning about wildlife, all of which is good for mental health.

Improves social skills

The outdoor classroom offers a different working environment than that of the traditional classroom setup. Here, children are encouraged to focus on their social and interaction skills, learning to problem solve as a group and work as a team. This is because the outdoor classroom is often linked to work that involves building or creating things from what’s around them.

Focus on the senses

Children absolutely thrive when learning outdoors and one benefit of this type of learning is that it helps to create heightened sensory awareness. This is particularly beneficial for those children who live in flats or who have no access to a garden or outdoor space. The outdoor classroom is often a solid shelter that will have a roof and walls to protect children and teachers against the rain, but children will still be able to breathe in fresh air, smell nature and feel connected to the wider world.

Smaller groups

The outdoor classroom has also grown in popularity as it provides an additional learning space for children in big classes. If you have a group of children who need extra help with reading, or who simply need time away from the busy classroom, then you have that additional space for them. This space is also quiet, calm and away from other distractions, making it ideal for children who have additional needs.

Project work

Finally, the outdoor classroom was made for targeted and project work, especially if it involves the use of natural materials. Mud kitchens and forest schools are now part of daily learning and the outdoor classroom, which is in the form of a solid structure and protects children from the elements, will provide the ideal environment to conduct this type of learning.

Shelter Solutions has a range of school shelters that are made from aluminium and feature rolling shutters and doors, meaning that they can double up as storage space. To learn more about our vast range of outdoor classrooms, please do browse our website or get in touch with us today.