Outside Learning

At St Francis, we value Outside Play and Outside Learning!

Why do we go outside?

We want the children of St Francis Primary School, to have access to a stimulating, natural, adventurous outdoor space. Therefore, when given the opportunity to develop our outdoor environment, we wanted to give all children opportunities that we had as young children.

  • To build a den
  • To play in the woods
  • To make up our own games in a natural environment
  • To take risks

We want to allow children to make the most amazing discoveries, about nature and about themselves. Often, taking learning outside enables children to experience new concepts throughout all areas of the curriculum, not only those that are science or nature-based. We believe that being outdoors has a positive impact on children’s sense of well-being and helps all aspects of children’s development:

  • Friendships
  • Teamwork
  • Communication
  • Fitness
  • Inquisitiveness
  • Fun and confidence
  • Independence
  • Resilience

The children investigate, experiment, jump, climb, build, hide, create, communicate, and explore!

 Our children are very fortunate to have an excellent natural outside learning environment.

Den Building Area

Building dens and creating nooks, crannies and hideaways can offer excellent opportunities for first-hand experiences for all children.

The Fort

Roleplay in a castle, as a pirate or as knight offer excellent opportunities for first-hand experiences for all children.

Amphitheatre & seating area

Shaded seating for a whole year offers opportunities for learning outside the classroom.

New Play Equipment

Climbing, exploring and swinging to develop gross motor skills.

Tyres

Extra area to sit with friends or to role play as a space craft!

Forest School Education in Foundation and Key Stage 1

Every week the children in Reception have the opportunity of taking all of their learning outside for the morning, no matter what the weather! Year 1 take part every other week and Year 2 once a term.

w

Contact Us

Latest Events

Y1 Trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park – 19th June ’24

On Thursday, 19th June 2024, we have arranged...

Y4 Trip to Coleshill – 5th June’24

Dear Parents, As part of our topic on “Rivers”,...

Y3 Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons at Cricklade Leisure Centre for...