First, what is an ‘outdoor classroom’?

The term ‘outdoor classroom’ can be a little misleading. Outdoor play and learning opportunities can be found. We are all familiar with the term ‘classroom’ and probably have clear images of indoor classrooms in our heads.  The words ‘outdoor classroom’ will mean lots of different things to different people.

At Thrive Outdoors, we believe that an ‘outdoor classroom’ is more than an outdoor gathering space.

An outdoor classroom is any outdoor space where play and learning can take place.  This means that outdoor classrooms  can be as as varied as the towns, communities and natural spaces we find them in.  They are part of the real world, with strong connections to place and to community.

Places which make great outdoor classrooms can be found

• in community gardens and allotments
• in woodland
• on local streets
• in the many small pockets of nature in our neighbourhoods
• in and around public buildings

We have gathered some examples of great outdoor classrooms and suggestions for the play and learning opportunities they provide.  We hope you are inspired to explore the outdoor classrooms on your doorsteps!