Leading: Outdoor Learning (Primary Curriculum)

Develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to bring the primary curriculum outdoors through practical Outdoor Education approaches. Join Field Studies Ireland for a practical course on Bringing the Primary Curriculum Outdoors, designed for those wishing to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to incorporate Outdoor Education into everyday primary level teaching and learning. This fully outdoor course explores how Outdoor Education can be used as a teaching methodology across the primary curriculum, demonstrating how local outdoor places and spaces can provide meaningful opportunities for learning across a range of primary education subjects. Participants will explore practical activities and teaching approaches that support curriculum learning, while also recognising the social, emotional, developmental and wellbeing benefits of bringing learning outdoors. We will consider how outdoor environments provide opportunities for hands-on investigation, problem-solving, creativity, collaboration and experiential learning, while participants find connections to their broader teaching practices. The course focuses on using everyday outdoor environments, including school grounds, playgrounds, parks, woodlands and other accessible local spaces. Particular attention will be given to activities requiring little or no specialist equipment, helping participants recognise opportunities to bring learning outdoors without the need for extensive resources or travel. Participants will develop their understanding of how to plan, adapt and facilitate outdoor lessons for different ages, abilities and learning needs. We will explore practical approaches to classroom management outdoors, appropriate risk management, curriculum integration and creating inclusive learning experiences. Learning will be grounded in practical activities, demonstrations, shared experiences and reflection, helping participants develop a collection of ideas and approaches that can be confidently incorporated into their own teaching practices. Field Studies Ireland is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in Outdoor Education. Our expertise lies in using Outdoor Education as a methodology across a wide range of subjects, settings and environments, placing us in a unique position to deliver practical, meaningful training. We exist to empower access to Outdoor Education, helping people and organisations bring what they do outdoors, for the benefit of education, development and wellbeing. Who is this course for? This course is suitable for adults wishing to develop their ability to incorporate Outdoor Education into primary curriculum teaching and learning, or those wishing to build on their existing outdoor teaching experience. It is particularly relevant to primary teachers, classroom assistants, special educational needs practitioners, student teachers, education support staff and others involved in delivering or supporting primary education. Participants are advised to complete a relevant introductory course, such as ‘Intro: Outdoor Education & Learning’, before attending. However, this is not essential, and those with suitable existing knowledge or experience are welcome to participate. What to expect Expect a friendly, practical and engaging learning experience, delivered entirely outdoors by Mark O’Connor, founder of Field Studies Ireland. Participants will experience and practise a variety of suitably-linked outdoor learning activities, with opportunities to plan, facilitate and reflect on approaches suitable for different primary age groups and learning needs. The emphasis is on developing practical, accessible teaching methods that can be replicated in participants' own school grounds and local outdoor environments. This is a certified course. Participants who have successfully completed suitable introductory training, such as ‘Intro: Outdoor Education & Learning’, alongside this course, will be eligible for certification. Those attending without suitable introductory training can still participate and develop their skills, with certification available following completion of the required training. As this course takes place outdoors, participants should expect uneven terrain and variable weather conditions. Suitable outdoor clothing and footwear are required. Group Training Field Studies Ireland regularly delivers this training directly to organisations, teams and community groups, often within their own local outdoor environments. The courses advertised here are intended for individuals or small groups wishing to join scheduled training. If you would like to arrange training for your own group, please contact Field Studies Ireland to discuss your requirements. [email protected]