ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the argument for making outdoor learning a fundamental part of the primary science curriculum. Research shows that teachers value outside learning because it inspires creativity, supports conceptual learning and makes the curriculum come alive for children. Outdoor learning can help make nature a part of children’s lives and help them develop an affection for wildlife. To get to know the living world children need regular contact with it. The Peoples Manifesto for Wildlife recommends that children spend at least one day a fortnight learning outdoors in natural environments. The most easily accessible outdoor learning areas available are usually the school grounds, and therefore schools need to make the most of them. Turning the school grounds into gardens and wildlife areas are exciting ways of creating an outdoor context for children to interact with nature, and at the same time making their science learning more relevant. Further afield, parks, community gardens, woodlands and nature reserves are inspiring places for children to explore, and provide extensive science learning opportunities.
