Teachers invited to step into the great outdoors

RESIDENTIAL field trips are a fun and educational part of school life for pupils – and now teachers can try one out for free thanks to the UK’s leading environmental education charity.

The Field Studies Council is encouraging teachers to step out of the classroom this autumn to find out how a residential field trip can benefit pupils’ development and support their learning.

The charity is offering teachers the chance to take part in a free taster event at locations around the country to learn how fieldwork can enhance learning, explore the centres and accommodation and help pre-plan trips for students.

Mark Castle, chief executive of the Field Studies Council, said:

“Good quality fieldwork is invaluable for students but we know that, for a variety of reasons, some teachers struggle to organise field trips.

“These free taster visits will show teachers the sort of courses that are available, improve their own outdoor study skills and show them how fieldwork can enhance learning outcomes.

“Teachers will also be able to talk to our staff about choosing the right course, as well as any grants and funding that might be available to their school.”

Research has shown that outdoor learning helps students embed their learning better than in a classroom, as well as teaching valuable soft skills such as leadership, teamwork and resilience.

The free taster sessions are taking place this autumn and winter at Flatford Mill in Suffolk, Margam Park in South Wales, Amersham in Buckinghamshire, Castle Head in Cumbria, Epping Forest in Essex, Beckenham Place Park in Lewisham, Bushey Park and Greenwich Park in London, Preston Montford in Shropshire and Rhyd-y-Creuau in North Wales.

Day courses and overnight stays are available, with a variety of key stages and subjects to choose from. The taster sessions are free, but a refundable deposit will be collected on booking.

Mark added:

“There is something to suit every teacher, whether it’s an overnight stay, a day trip or a shorter twilight session, and some are tailored to specific subjects. Our very experienced centre staff will also be available to answer any questions you might have.”

Visit the free taster session booking page for more information and to sign up.