The Benefits of Learning in Natural Spaces

Children from Dulverton School do kick sampling, invertebrate identification, and release salmon fry in the River Haddeo, with Westcountry Rivers Trust (WRT) warden John Hickey. Bury, Exmoor National Park, Somerset, UK. May 2012. - Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION

Learning outdoors is good for mental health and well-being

The coronavirus pandemic has shone a light on our children’s mental health and well-being, exposing an urgent need to address some of the very real challenges that they are facing. Simultaneously, there is growing recognition of the positive benefits that spending time in ‘green spaces’ can have and there is a growing body of scientific research that confirms this.

Nature Nurtures Children

The Wildlife Trusts commissioned a study by the Institute of Education at University College London (UCL) to evaluate the impact that experiencing nature has upon children. The study focused on over 450 primary school children and the effects of Wildlife Trust-led activities on their wellbeing. This is one of the largest studies into the effects of outdoor activities on children’s wellbeing and views about nature.

Overall, the research revealed that children’s wellbeing increased after they had spent time connecting with nature. The children showed an increase in their personal wellbeing and health over time; they showed high levels of enjoyment and an increased connection to nature.

Key Findings:

90% they had learned something new about nature
84% felt that they are capable of new things when they try
81% said they had better relationships with their teachers
79% said they thought the experience would help them with their school work
79% felt more confident in themselves
79% felt that they had better relationships with their class mates

Read a summary of Nature Nurtures Children

Read the full report Children and Nature

Learning outdoors is good for physical health and academic achievement

In 2016, Natural England found links between learning in natural environments and positive impacts upon learning processes and outcomes.

Key Findings:

Children engaged in learning in a natural environment have higher levels of achievement in reading, maths and science
Pupils have been found to make 3 additional months of progress in terms of learning outcomes compared to their peers
Pupils have improved attendance rates
Greener school grounds have been linked with better motor skills and rates of physical activity

Source: Natural England Access to Evidence Information Note EIN017)