At Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, we believe that outdoor learning is valuable for many reasons, as research has shown that learning outdoors benefits both a child’s mental and physical wellbeing. It’s not just about being outside; nature and outdoor spaces offer specific benefits that enhance the learning process. 

The National Education Nature Park program aims to integrate nature-based learning into the curriculum. It is a national initiative which encourages children and young people across the country to take steps to improve their environments for people and wildlife. 

Derbyshire Wildlife Trust was chosen as the official contractor on the program to advise on positive actions and implement physical changes. We collaborated with eight schools across Derbyshire to improve areas with low biodiversity and to better utilise underused spaces for outdoor learning. 

We listened to the schools' needs and worked closely with them to create usable spaces that support teaching and learning, while providing real biodiversity benefits. This was achieved through the construction and installation of raised beds, which were planted with native wildflower species, as well the sowing of a native mix of wildflower and grass seeds to enhance existing amenity grasslands where space allowed. 

Cultivating Connection, Calm and Confidence

Nature has been shown to boost concentration, attention, and focus. Studies indicate that being in natural settings can reduce mental fatigue, leading to better information retention and enhanced problem-solving skills. Natural environments also encourage creative thinking. The open space and stimuli in nature help promote a variety of possible solutions to problems.

A change of scenery can break the routine of the classroom. It offers learners a fresh perspective, making education feel more exciting and engaging. This can reignite motivation, especially for those who feel disconnected from traditional learning.

Nature often provides a peaceful environment that allows for reflection and mindfulness. This can help students build emotional intelligence and develop a grounded approach to problem-solving.

Learning outdoors can also create a stronger connection to the environment and a sense of responsibility for nature. This can lead to increased environmental awareness and care. 

Moving Bodies, Muddy Boots

Outdoor learning usually includes physical activity, which improves overall health, boosts energy, and lifts mood. Physical exercise has been linked to better thinking skills, improved memory, and reduced stress. Natural settings help lower stress levels and foster a sense of calm. Being outside allows a break from daily pressures, helping students or anyone else relax and recharge.

Hands-on activities such as gardening, nature walks, observation, experiments, and exploration feature heavily in outdoor learning. These activities make abstract ideas more concrete and easier to grasp, especially in subjects like science and geography. 

Outdoor activities often involve teamwork, which can enhance social skills, cooperation, and communication. Whether it’s a group project, a hike, or a team-building exercise, students gain valuable interpersonal skills. Gaining outdoor skills, exploring new environments, or solving problems in nature can boost self-esteem and confidence.

In an outdoor setting, learning engages all the senses — touch, sight, hearing, smell, and even taste in some cases. This multi-sensory approach can make learning more memorable and meaningful. 

Rooted in learning, growing in nature - how to get involved

One of the most rewarding aspects of carrying out these projects was the interactions with the children and seeing how excited they were to be able to use their new spaces. They were constantly asking questions and looking to understand what it was we were doing and once we explained the purpose, they couldn’t wait to use their new and improved outside space.

Whilst working in the schools, we took the opportunity to speak to them and their grounds maintenance teams about ways in which they could slightly alter the way they managed the grounds to allow more space for nature and how small changes, such as not mowing so low, could allow species to flourish.

If you would like to action for nature in your school then there are a few simple steps you can take;

1. Find out if you have funding to be a nature park school this year, but be quick as applications close in February 2026.
2. Join our Wild School Network for support making grounds better for nature and resources for outdoor learning. 

Find out more about our Wild Schools Network here