We will be adopting an outdoor classroom as much as possible this year.  Students will be spending much of their time learning and playing outside.

Benefits of an Outdoor Classroom:

  • Allows for social distancing and interaction.
  • Reduces anxiety concerning working and learning in a group setting.
  • Provides opportunities for exploration and inquiry.  Children are naturally curious about the world around them.  By working and learning outside we are able to incorporate their wonderings into the curriculum.
  • Helps students develop deeper connections between what they are learning and their their own personal experiences.
  • Helps students develop a greater connection to nature and a sense of personal responsibility towards their community and the world around them.

Being Prepared to Learn Outside:

September can vary widely in terms of what students can expect when outside.  Layers are going to be important.  It can be cold in the morning, so students will need clothing that they can remove as it becomes warmer during the day.

Students must wear running shoes.  Sandals and crocs are tripping hazards and we want to minimize the potential for injury.

It can be very sunny and hot and we have little shade on our school ground.  Please send hats, sunscreen and water bottles.  Water fountains have been turned off so students will be able to refill water bottles from the class tap.

Students need to be prepared to be outside even if it is raining.  Boots, rain pants and waterproof coats are encouraged.  Students will not be able to carry umbrellas as they will need their hands free for learning activities.

More information about learning outside will follow.

Additional Resources about Learning Outside:

To find out more about the benefits of outdoor learning, you can watch this video by Sir Ken Robinson about 5 reasons to teach outside: