The Outdoor Ed School

From risk assessments to weather plans and overnight supervision, this episode explores the unglamorous but essential planning that makes school trips safe, inclusive, and successful. We unpack why rigorous preparation, staff training, and accessibility planning are more important than ever, especially when outdoor learning involves adventure or residential experiences.

Life shakes us all but what spills out isn’t always caused by the bump. In this episode, we explore a simple yet profound lesson from a professor: the emotions that surface when we’re tested are already inside us. Discover how awareness, patience, and intentional habits can help you and the kids you teach, build real resilience. Plus, learn practical ways to “fill your cup” so that when life bumps you, the spill is calm, thoughtful, and powerful.Grab free resources and activity ideas to help students grow resilient at www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk.

What happens when classrooms move into forests, fields, and footpaths? In this episode, we explore how schools are using outdoor activities to teach environmental awareness, from nature walks and species identification to hands-on lessons in ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability. Discover why outdoor learning is no longer an “extra,” but a core part of science and geography education, and how muddy boots may be shaping a more environmentally responsible generation.

Let’s be honest.Most mindfulness in schools doesn’t work.Telling restless students to “sit still and breathe” in a classroom full of pressure, noise, and expectations is a losing game.In this episode, I break down a smarter, more effective way to embed mindfulness by pairing it with movement, challenge, and outdoor learning.No chanting.No awkward silence.No extra workload for teachers.You’ll discover:Why traditional mindfulness fails with disengaged studentsHow outdoor challenges naturally create focus, calm, and emotional regulationSimple classroom-to-woodland techniques that actually stickHow to improve behaviour and engagement without stopping the activityThis is mindfulness in motion, designed for real classrooms, real students, and real behaviour challenges.If you work with young people and want:✔ Better focus✔ Fewer emotional blow-ups✔ Stronger resilience✔ More engaged learnersThis episode will change how you think about mindfulness forever.🎧 Press play — and stop fighting behaviour the hard way.

If resilience had a real slogan, it wouldn’t be “Stay Strong”....It would be: “This hurts. Keep going anyway.”In this episode, we peel back the glossy quotes and motivational posters and unpack what resilience actually feels like when you’re inside it, the doubt, the frustration, the tiny sparks of progress, and the quiet moments where you choose not to quit.Perfect for students, educators, parents and anyone trying to be the best version of themselves, even when it’s messy.🎒 For free games, outdoor learning ideas and school programmes designed to build real resilience (the kind learned through mud, fire, teamwork and adventure) visit:👉 www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

In this episode, we explore how outdoor play and nature-based activities can help children manage big feelings, build resilience, and stay focused... all while having fun!Join Dan Pritchard as we share simple, research-backed games and activities you can try this week that combine movement, mindfulness, and teamwork. From balancing logs to creative nature challenges, these playful ideas help kids calm down, tune in, and get learning-ready. No fancy equipment required!Perfect for parents, teachers, or anyone looking to bring fun, emotional learning into the great outdoors.🎧 Tune in and discover how a few minutes outside can make a big difference in your students or child’s day!

Did you know that spending time outdoors can do more than just burn off energy? In this episode, we dive into the science and stories behind how nature-based learning improves mental health, focus, resilience, and social skills for children of all ages.Join Dan Pritchard as we explore why outdoor learning isn’t just fun, it’s a powerful tool for well-being. We’ll share real examples, research-backed insights, and tips for helping children thrive both inside and outside the classroom.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or outdoor enthusiast, this episode will give you practical ideas and inspiration to bring the benefits of nature into everyday learning.🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and discover why stepping outside might just be the best part of the school day!

We all do it, we all limit our selves in some way. Some times it can be a good thing. Other times it can stop you for achieving greatness. Nothing sums that up better than this experiment.

Meet Tegan Hawkins the new lead instructor of our New Forest activity centre.

Join us for “30 Days to Create 1 Pot,” a journey into patience, craft, and the ancient skills that shaped our connection to the wild. Each episode explores how traditional pottery mirrors the focus of archery and the resourcefulness of bushcraft—teaching us to slow down, aim true, and work with nature. By the end of the 30 days, you’ll discover how a single handmade pot can transform the way you see skill, discipline, and the outdoors.

It’s time to learn how to drive (communicate) again!

Meet Archie a new additional to our outdoor activity team. In this episode he explore his previous experiences and his passion for the outdoors.

In this episode we discuss if comfort is the killer of success.I was joined by James Marcer an outdoor instructor who specialises in alternative provision.

The Stages of Competence model was introduced by Noel Burch in the 1970s. Similar to the Situational Leadership model, learners in the Stages of Competence model fall into 1 of 4 stages: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, or unconscious competence.

In this episode we discuss the difference between an outdoor event / camp and an alternative learning program.

If you are looking for a simple but effect team work model / tool then try DOC.

The pillars to convince your students to try something new

Here is my take away from a recent event. Before we provided a full day event for a school the teacher hosted a group discussion.The topic, what is the difference between pressure and support…

Maybe it's time to introduce your students to fire. Fire safety, social experiences, the different uses of fire.

This is a simple and fun activity perfect for year 3 students and above.

All you need is some paper, a ball, and a starting line.

If you are delivering a progress program or a development program this is a must listen.

In this episode I am joined by Jim Marcer an alternative learning provider and outdoor educator

This episode we discuss the importance of have a goal and the steps to achieve your goal.

This is a great way to introduce map reading to your students. With different levels of complexity making it adaptable for most ages. You will cover things like key landmarks, colour keys, pacing and scale.

At The Outdoor Ed School we provided this activity just before the Easter holidays every year. It's a great activity to get your student outside, active, and developing their navigation skills. To watch our compass intro video head to our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

While providing an orienteering session for a school I stumbled onto this great metaphor. Identify your starting point and your end point (goal). Choose the best route for you. Then start your journey to success. Don't forget to keep track of your progress. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

All you need is a few cups and some water. This competitive challenges gets you students thinking about resource management, game tactics, partnerships, and loads more.

This activity gets your students thinking, active, and working as a team. With the help of your students it will take you less than 30 seconds to set up. You can adapt this activity to meet all ages and abilities.

In this episode I share a quick snippet of what was discussed at the Odyssey event last week.

If you looking for a feedback model which rolls off the tongue than this isn't the right model for you. If you are looking for a model which is user friendly and produces thoughtful feedback than give this a go! Trying pairing it with one of the team challenges from the hub. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk/thehub

This is a great way to get your students brains working. It asks your students to work together, be creative, and think quickly. This can also be used to help students retain complex instructions. If you would like more outdoor ed resources check out our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

Maslow's Hierarchy Of Needs is a motivational psychology theory which used by the outdoor industry to promote planning and preparation for residentials and expeditions. If you have any questions about Maslow's Hierarchy Of Needs or you would like other great outdoor resources head over to our website. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

If you have some scrap paper / newspaper and sellotape then you have everything you need for this activity. Your key stage 1 and 2 students will love it! For other activities and review models check out our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

In todays episode I am joined by Nathan Sherratt an active football referee and the managing director for The Third Team. The Third Team supports referees with resilience & mental toughness, to enhance performance, and improve mental health. If you like what you hear check out Nathans free resources and blog on his website. https://thethirdteam.co.uk/

This is almost a stand alone episode... This isn't a team challenge, problem solving, or review model. But it can be used to support all three. Letters to future self is a brilliant activity to pair with the hero's journey. It's even better if you provide it on a residential or courses.

In this episode you get two for one! We will talk through two different team challenge ideas which you can provide with just a tarp / blanket. For more ideas and review models check out our website. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

This challenge is ideal for key stage 3 and 4 students. If you are looking for a challenge which only requires a pencil and focuses on resilience and leadership then this is the challenge for you. Check out our website for more challenges and reviews. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

The Human Alphabet summarises this activity pretty well. Check out or website for lots of free review models to support this activity. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

If you are looking for a great icebreaker challenge which only requires a ball try this one. It is ideal for key stage 1 and 2 students. You can adapt the challenge to increase and decrease the difficulty to suit all needs. Check out our website for support and more ideas. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

This is a handy reminder that not everything comes naturally to you but often the most rewarding things require a little effort!

Join me and Dr. Lauran Kerr-Heraly as we discuss the importance of alternative learning programs. Lauran is an experienced professor who has created a coaching program which supports students and their families to develop a growth mindset. The courses have been develop using the latest neuroscience evidence. You can expect to find loads of amazing top tips to beat procrastination and master time management. Lauran covers topics including how to structure your day to maximise your bodies natural reward system (dopamine). If you like what you hear in the podcast check out Dr. Lauran Kerr-Heraly's social media platforms and website. Website - https://www.alteringcourse.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alteringcourse/?hl=en Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@laurankerr-heraly365

This model feels similar to the SMART goal setting model. You will need to provide goal identifying section prior to using this model. Think of this framework as a tool to which helps the user to create a pathway to success. For more support get in touch through our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

This goal setting framework is a great tool to help the user to identify their goal, create a pathway, check its achievable, and create a time line. S.M.A.R.T goals: S - Specific M - Measurable A - Achievable R - Relevant T - Time Bound If you need support get in touch through our website. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

The 5 C's is a great goal setting tool ideal for short and long term planning. If you want to start 2024 by developing your students visualisation skillset then this is the episode for you. For short term planning pair this tool with one of the team challenges on The Outdoor Ed School website. For long term planning use this tool to create a 1 month, 12 month or 5 year plan. For additional support contact us on [email protected]

If you are looking for a goal setting tool then look no further. The GROW model brakes down the goal setting and planning phase into bite size chucks. This is a great tool to introduce during team challenges and problem solving activities so when your need to created a long term plan they know what to do. Check out our website for loads more free resources: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

This model give both you and your students a framework to deliver constructive feedback. BOOST stands for Balanced - Observed - Objective - Specific - Timely. For loads more review models, team challenges, problem solving tasks and more check out our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk

If you are looking for an activity which is fun, festive and still supports your students to develop their social skills then try this one. Try pairing this activity with the AID model when reviewing the learning outcomes. If you need any support delivering this activity head over to our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk/thehub

Simple to remember, quick to explain, and effective. This review model can be delivered both as a self reflection task or as a guided review. If you need any support using this model you can find our contact details on our website: www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk/thehub

This model supports you to reframe the language you use. It promotes the use of questions to identify and replicate positive behaviours. This is stage 3 in the growth mindset training course. What to explore the other two sections? Check out the HUB on our website. www.theoutdooredschool.co.uk/thehub