“Let Nature be your teacher.” - William Wordsworth

 

At Parsons Down, we value outdoor learning and are lucky to have extensive grounds and access to The Nature Discovery Centre to help enrich our curriculum. We believe there are huge benefits to learning outside, including:

• Higher levels of confidence, self-esteem and a positive self-image;

• Increased language development— children have time to talk, ask questions and find out more;

• Physical confidence, improved co-ordination with children challenging themselves;

• Evaluating and managing reasonable risks, they know about safety in the environment and know their own capabilities and limitations and are aware of when they must use caution;

• Knowledge and competencies in the use of real tools;

• Awe and wonder at, and a wider knowledge of, the natural world;

• Increased opportunity for problem solving, finding their own resources and seeking out others to support them in their learning;

• Real life relevant experiences that develop physical confidence, improve coordination and enable children to challenge themselves;

• Increased motivation to engage in learning;

• Increased cooperation, working together;

• Developing their curiosity and exploration. Observation skills, they learn from each other and are interested in each other’s discoveries.

 

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." –John Muir.

 

 

If you wish to encourage even more outdoor learning with your child(ren), you may find the following websites and resources useful:

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Canal and River Trust: Corridor For Nature

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Canal and River Trust: Water Safety

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Avon Tyrrell Learning Resources

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School Gardening: Back To Nature Activity Cards

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Wildlife Trusts: Actions For Wildlife

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RSPB: Nature on your Doorstep

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Seek App: Wildlife Identification​