Outdoor Learning PractitionerOutcome 4: Understand the learning opportunities available in

the outdoors

AC 4.3 Identify areas that could be used for outdoor learning

A blank canvass?

Let the grass grow!

• Likely to be a diversity of plants present

• Incorporate development of your site into the curriculum

• Stop the contractors from mowing it off

Create interest at your site or nearby

Encourage biodiversity

Create habitat

Vegetable gardens

Bed systems use space more efficientlyResulting in less soil compaction (clay soils)Allow crop to cover ground and reduce weeds

Crops can be covered with plastic in spring / autumn to extend cropping periodCrops can be protected with fleece

OrchardsFruit trees do not need lots of space. Cordons, espalier and varieties on dwarfing rootstocks can be kept very small and manageable

Consider varieties that have historical interest

Meadows

Establishing florally rich meadows can be difficult.Reducing the fertility of the soil is key to success

Start by letting the grass grow long

Establishment of meadows depends upon mimicking agricultural regimes eg. Spring or summer hay meadows

Ponds

Water is an essential part of a wildlife friendly garden.

Ponds do not have to be deep or even hold water all year round.

Plant trees and shrubs

• Choose native species wherever possible

• Consider planting mini orchards or small groups of fruit trees

• Choose things which will be useful at Forest School

• Plan the management of these new arrivals!

Adventure & PlayEarth Air Fire Water

Low Maintenance

Use your resource sustainably • Prune for renewal• Coppice broad leaved trees• Allow the site to recover• Make cost / benefits

decisions• If more than one group

uses the area, keep communicating!

Enjoy it!