Outdoor schooling

If the government decides that schools should go back before the summer, Councils should consider to split P4 to P7 classes and some of the children could be taught outdoors in a way existing Wildlife Clubs are already offering after school activities. This would encourage physical activity, while making social distancing easier to apply. Also aerosols do easier disperse outdoors. The main problem might be to figure out where to have these clubs in dense cities. Could they be held in parks close to the schools or should children be able to meet in forest / meadow areas which might be more exclusive since not reachable by walking for many.

Why the contribution is important

It’s is important because children need social contact with peers. And many children have spent a whole lot of time indoors without appropriate physical activity. Outdoor schooling allows for social distancing while still beI got together. Aerosols are not staying in the air like they would inside a closed classroom, again bringing infection risk down. Physical activity is a natural part of these classes. Most cities already having wildlife clubs or even scouts that offer outdoor classes as after school activities, meaning trained personal is available. Additionally, it would keep these clubs alive.

by SR23 on May 06, 2020 at 12:55PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 4.5
Based on: 7 votes

Comments

  • Posted by dundee20 May 10, 2020 at 10:43

    This sounds like a great idea.

    Use our playgrounds (or parks where necessary) with outdoor clubs/classrooms etc to support children's emotional and social well-being through these challenging times.

    It could be done in "bubbles" so the kids are with a consistent group - any potential risks communicated and groups closed if necessary to suppress any local outbreaks.
    Start small, half days if necessary etc. to pilot what works.
    This should be voluntary so parents that don't want to do this don't have to.
    Let's learn from the existing hubs on what works and implement learning.
    Where demand is higher than supply a prioritisation matrix could support this with vulnerable children, children of key workers (if hubs are shut), working single parents etc taking priority as needed.
  • Posted by TLF May 10, 2020 at 11:20

    Blended learning in the restart could help accelerate new ways of learning in new settings, with support and reflection by learners, teachers and communities. Some ideas on the subject from a P4 learner in Edinburgh: https://vimeo.com/416667297
  • Posted by Shabbyhouse May 10, 2020 at 13:48

    Lochinver Primary already does this. Wish I was that young again...
  • Posted by cnanguy May 10, 2020 at 14:56

    Good idea
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