Commitment to pupils’ outdoor learning earns accreditation
A NIDDERDALE private school has become the only school in North Yorkshire to be officially recognised for its commitment to taking pupils’ learning outside the classroom.
Belmont Grosvenor, in Birstwith, near Harrogate, has been awarded the prestigious Silver Learning Outside the Classroom Mark (LOtC).
The award, handed out by the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom, accredits schools that have policies and practices in place to ensure that high-quality LOtC is available to all pupils across all areas of the curriculum to benefit their learning and personal development, the body says.
Belmont Grosvenor School was praised for its ‘strong commitment to providing frequent, continuous and progressive LOtC for all pupils’.
Set in 20 acres of grounds, the award recognises how the school uses its setting, buildings and environment, and enhances the outdoor learning with clubs, trips and visits.
Learning outside the classroom is embedded in the school’s curriculum, according to the school. All children, from the youngest in its nursery to Year 6, make full use of its fields, woodland and outdoor facilities, which include an outdoor classroom and a logged Forest School area featuring a parachute roof and campfire.
Sian de Gracia, year four teacher and LOtC co-ordinator, said: “I’m thrilled to get official recognition for our efforts and look forward to building on this award by continuing to improve and expand our LOtC provision.”
Headteacher Jane Merriman added: “This is a marvellous achievement and once again showcases how the school uses its wonderful grounds, environment and buildings, and reflects the diversity of our curriculum which is enhanced by clubs, trips and visits.”
Studies have shown that outdoor learning contributes to raising standards and improving development.