The outdoor learning podcast that is removing barriers to learning for thousands of children all across the world and empowering teachers with confidence, skills, ideas and resources.
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The outdoor learning podcast that is removing barriers to learning for thousands of children all across the world and empowering teachers with confidence, skills, ideas and resources.
If you enjoyed this and would like to support us then buy us a coffee at https://ko-fi.com/loveoutdoors
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this conversation, Eilidh Malcolm from OWL Scotland discusses her extensive background in outdoor learning and the importance of connecting children with nature. She highlights the role of OWL groups across Scotland in providing resources, training, and community support for educators. The conversation also covers various awards, such as the Scottish Junior Forester Award and Scotland's Finest Woods Awards, which encourage outdoor education and environmental stewardship. Eilidh emphasizes the value of networking, sharing resources, and fostering a love for nature among young people.
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In this episode of the Breaking Into the Playground podcast, host Carol Murdoch explores the enchanting world of outdoor storytelling. She discusses how nature enhances storytelling, making it immersive and engaging. Through the tale of the Green Man, she illustrates the transformative power of stories in connecting children with the natural world. Carol shares practical techniques for effective outdoor storytelling and encourages educators to integrate storytelling into their outdoor learning practices. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to find and share their own stories inspired by nature.
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In this podcast, Carol Murdoch interviews Paul Kendall from Wild Things, an environmental education charity in Scotland. They discuss Paul's journey into environmental education, the work Wild Things does with various age groups, and the importance of outdoor learning. The conversation highlights the differences between Forest School and Wild Things' approach, the significance of risk assessment, and the long-term impact of environmental education on participants' attitudes towards nature. Paul emphasizes the need for more people to engage with nature and shares future plans for Wild Things, including new projects and training opportunities.
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This conversation explores the significance of outdoor learning in Scotland, discussing its benefits for children, staff, and families. It addresses barriers to access, the importance of engaging parents, and the need for training and resources. The speakers share personal experiences and emphasize the necessity of mindset shifts to promote outdoor learning effectively. They also highlight the importance of recognizing achievements and sharing best practices within the educational community.
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In this episode of the Breaking Into the Playground podcast, host Carol Murdoch speaks with Dawn from Mucky Boots about the importance of outdoor learning and its impact on mental health. Dawn shares her journey into outdoor education, the core values of Mucky Boots, and the need for systemic change in education to support children's development. They discuss the challenges faced by educators, the significance of community, and the role of Upstart Scotland in advocating for a more play-based approach to early childhood education. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset, well-being, and the human element in teaching, as well as practical tips for educators looking to incorporate outdoor learning into their practice.
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As the academic year comes to an end, it's time to start thinking about how to support outdoor learning in the next academic year. Outdoor learning has numerous benefits for both students and teachers, including improved mental health and well-being. Integrating outdoor learning into the everyday curriculum is a great way to incorporate it into the school year. Even if a school has limited outdoor space, there are still plenty of activities that can be done in a concrete playground. Starting small and gradually expanding outdoor learning activities is key, as well as involving parents and providing appropriate training and resources.
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Ian Menzies from Education Scotland discusses his journey in education and his passion for outdoor learning. He highlights the importance of preparing children for engagement with the world and the role of Education Scotland in supporting teachers and learners. He also discusses the Scottish Government Strategic Working Group for Outdoor Learning and the Learning for Sustainability Action Plan. Progression in outdoor learning is emphasized, with examples of how it can be integrated into the curriculum and the importance of community involvement and partnerships. Funding opportunities and the importance of support and resources are also highlighted.
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Summary
Cameron discusses his journey with Stramash, an outdoor nursery in Scotland, highlighting the lows, like the devastating storm and fire the experience to the highs and benefits of outdoor learning and the people he works with. He emphasizes the importance of independence and relationships, provides tips for managing outdoor challenges, and discusses the future of outdoor education in Scotland, including the need for more training and improved facilities.
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Judy Duncan, a teacher with a passion for outdoor learning, shares her journey and experiences. She discovered the benefits of outdoor learning when she took her primary six class outside for short periods every day, which greatly improved their concentration and behavior. Judy emphasizes the importance of making connections with the real world through outdoor learning and believes that children should have the opportunity to meet different people and experience different places. She also highlights the value of incorporating nature into lessons and the positive impact it has on students. Judy provides practical examples of whole school outdoor days, emphasizing the simplicity and low resource requirements. She encourages teachers to plan their week as normal and then consider what activities could be taken outside to enhance learning. Judy envisions outdoor learning becoming a regular part of every teacher's approach, with more resources and support available for upper stages and specialist nature teachers.
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Juliet Robertson, an education consultant specializing in learning and play outdoors, shares her journey with acute myeloid leukemia and the importance of open conversations about death. She emphasizes the need for teachers to slow down and take care of their mental health. Juliet provides several tips for educators, including focusing on values, minimizing planning time, teaching outside more, and finding healthy passions outside of teaching. She also discusses the impact of collaborative work in the outdoor learning community in Scotland and the importance of play in education. The conversation explores the challenges and benefits of outdoor learning for teachers. It emphasizes the importance of stepping back and allowing students to take ownership of their learning. The conversation also highlights the need for teachers to have confidence in their role as facilitators and to know when and how to intervene appropriately. The speakers discuss the importance of mindset over confidence when it comes to teaching outside and offer advice on overcoming barriers. They also emphasize the value of developing school grounds and the positive impact it can have on both students and the community.
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In this conversation, Carol discusses her experience with hay fever and shares her top tips for managing it while working outdoors. In the second part of the conversation, Carol recommends the book 'Wild Woman' by Philippa Forrester, which shares empowering stories of women who work in nature. She reflects on her own journey as an outdoor practitioner and emphasizes that anyone can enjoy and teach in the outdoors, regardless of qualifications or background. Carol concludes by mentioning upcoming events and resources related to outdoor learning.
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Step into the realm of outdoor education with Carol Murdoch as she unpacks the intricacies of playground learning in this captivating podcast episode. Explore the contrasting landscapes of woodland, concrete, and open plan classrooms, as Carol delves into their respective advantages and challenges. From the tranquility of nature to the urban hustle, discover how these environments impact focus, regulation, and academic outcomes.
Carol doesn't just showcase the benefits—she offers actionable insights. Learn how simple additions like loose parts can enhance learning experiences and tackle storage concerns. With a keen eye for innovation, Carol leaves no stone unturned in her mission to redefine outdoor education.
Join us on this enlightening journey where every corner of the playground becomes a classroom waiting to be explored!
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