Outdoor Learning

Over the past few years, Outdoor Learning at The Beacon has flourished, with boys from Reception to Year 8 enjoying interactive learning outdoors.

Where better to learn new things while appreciating the beauty of nature, than the great outdoors? High-quality outdoor learning experiences are proven to:

• develop reflective and inquisitive thinking along with problem-solving approaches in ‘real’ situations
• encourage holistic development of children
• develop resilience and adaptability in occasionally adverse circumstances
• allow children to become more able to identify hazards and risks
• develop a love, appreciation and respect for nature and all that is living
• develop an understanding of how we can look after our environment
• develop self-awareness, confidence and self-esteem
• develop collaborative working and communication skills
• provide positive health benefits – both physically and mentally – and assist gross and fine-motor development

Beacon boys are involved in a number of Outdoor Learning sessions, trips and ‘survival days’ throughout the year either in the surrounding woods, on our playing field (Willsfield), or during residential trips.

From Reception to Year 4, boys enjoy a term of six sessions throughout the year, where they explore a section of the woods, playing games, communicating with peers, building dens and discovering more of our natural environment. As they progress into Lower School (Years 3 and 4), they continue to build on these skills and start simple map reading and compass skills, as well as learning some practical skills such as how to whittle and how to start a fire. These sessions really focus on team building and leadership strategies.

In Middle School (Years 5 and 6), the boys take part in a ‘survival day’, where their core learning skills are tested further through a range of classroom, field and wood-based challenges. In Year 6, the boys learn the real-life practical application of these aptitudes through sessions with external visitors sharing their work experiences with the boys, and this continues to develop in Upper School (Years 7 and 8).

Outdoor Learning at The Beacon encourages our boys to have a lifelong love of the outdoors, and taking part in these sessions is a real highlight for both boys and staff.