Outdoor Learning and Educational Visits
Outdoor learning is a celebrated activity at Silverdale St John’s which is enjoyed by pupils, staff and parents alike. Embedded in our vision is the principle that children will be taught through a creative curriculum and will become global citizens and will care for all of God’s creation.
Silverdale is a rich environment and supports the children’s learning throughout their time in school. Each class in school has at least half a day of Outdoor Learning each half-term when they walk up to Eaves Wood and learn about nature. They learn how to stay safe and recognise dangers, they learn about the plants and animals that occupy the woods, and they understand how to look after and respect their outdoor environment. Children have the chance to explore nature up close, build dens, fires, use tools safely and be creative with the things around them.
Children in the Early Years have many opportunities for outdoor learning and play as well as weekly Forest School sessions led by a trainer practitioner. We are so very lucky to have access to a purpose built Forest School area within the grounds of the church.
Outdoor Learning happens whatever the weather. We encourage children to come dressed in warm ‘active uniform’, armed with wellies or walking boots!
One of the most memorable parts of school life are the exciting trips that children go on.
We know that educational visits not only add to and enhance learning but they can also provide life changing experiences and memories. At Silverdale St John’s we try to organise at least one trip per term for each class which is linked to either the topic being taught or a whole school theme or project.
In addition, we also know that residential (overnight) trips help children grow and enjoy new experiences. We are proud of our Y5/6 residential programme which alternates each year between a trip to a city and a trip to an outdoor activity centre.
All of our trips, be they in the school day or overnight, are risk assessed and have the necessary high ratios of adults to children including first aiders. For some visits we ask for voluntary contributions but we believe money shouldn’t be a barrier to these vital experiences so work with families to make sure all children can take part.
