Outdoor Learning

Intent

At Christ Church School, we believe that outdoor learning is an essential part of a rich and balanced curriculum. Our intent is to ensure that all children benefit from regular time spent outdoors, engaging with nature, being physically active and developing a strong sense of place within their local environment. We aim to nurture children’s physical health, mental well-being and social development by providing varied opportunities for outdoor exploration, play and learning. Through first-hand experiences, we want pupils to build confidence, independence and curiosity about the world around them, particularly within our vibrant city of Bristol.

Implementation

Outdoor learning is embedded across the curriculum and supported by the design of our school environment. Every classroom has direct access to outdoor space, enabling seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor learning for academic, creative and physical activities.

Although based in the city centre, we are fortunate to have a range of outdoor facilities that enrich our provision, including:

• a floodlit games court to support physical education and sport
• a woodland playground with an all-weather surface
• a variety of free-play climbing apparatus, generously funded by our PTA
• a newly developed outdoor classroom for cross-curricular learning and Forest School activities

Our curriculum also extends beyond the school grounds. Children regularly walk to local sites across Bristol to enhance their geographical, historical and cultural understanding. Proximity to the Bristol Downs enables classes to take part in Avon Wildlife Trust workshops, developing their knowledge of local ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.

Impact

Outdoor learning at Christ Church School has a clear and positive impact on pupils’ development. Being active outdoors increases children’s physical activity levels and supports healthy lifestyles. Time spent in natural and green spaces helps to reduce stress and promotes strong mental health and emotional well-being.

We see significant benefits in pupils’ social and personal development. Outdoor learning strengthens self-esteem, confidence and independent decision-making, while also fostering risk-taking, problem-solving and creativity. Children develop resilience, teamwork and a deeper connection to their local environment.

Through meaningful experiences both within school and across Bristol, our pupils gain cultural capital and a richer understanding of the world around them ensuring they grow into informed, confident and compassionate learners.