Learning through Landscapes

Outdoor learning is a context that all teachers in Scotland are expected to use regularly and progressively in their practice. Our pupils are expected to engage with local communities, the natural world and their own playgrounds as an opportunity for authentic learning and agency.

Learning through Landscapes (Scotland) has developed a series of long-term, collaborative courses which use action research and teacher reflection to maximise learning. Proven over a decade and many hundreds of teachers, the programmes have evolved over time to support the real needs of teachers and schools.

Our programmes all integrate with the UN Global Goals for Sustainability, Curriculum for Excellence and GTC Scotland Professional Standards.

Teaching in Nature / Learning in Local Greenspaces uses green spaces and places within walking distance of schools. We engage with ‘place based learning’ – using the spaces, people and nature to inform our learning, matching to curriculum and outcomes as we progress. Teachers often describe real engagement from learners, as they spend time learning in places and spaces that are meaningful to them – and then putting something back into that space.

Lead Teacher in Outdoor Learning – makes use of the school playground and some local spaces and places. We cover various areas of the curriculum, showing how taking a different approach to teaching and learning can lead to more motivation, a deeper and more memorable learning experience. Often a case of “don’t do more, do different”. The course also ranges into areas such as playground improvement and supporting colleagues as they take first steps outdoors.

Every course consists of training days, time to put the learning into practice and co-reflection on the teachers’ own learning – as well as impact on pupils. At the end of a programme, any candidate wishing to be recommended for Professional Recognition in outdoor learning can submit a reflective piece of work, highlighting practice, impact and professional learning.

A few words from participants:

“Children respond to the unpredictability of the outdoors and learn to adapt and creatively respond to situations. I have learned to embrace this opportunity, improving the learning experience for all my pupils.”

“A sea-change in my teaching and learning approach”

“The best CPD I have taken part in – in my 15-year teaching career. Being able to try new ideas, reflect and share (successes and tears!) with peers in such a supportive way has been wonderful.”

The programme is often ‘hosted’ by a local authority, occasionally funded and run as a regional programme.

Contact

01786 465 934
training@ltl.org.uk