How canopies help schools participate in Outdoor Classroom Day
The second Outdoor Classroom Day of 2023 is fast approaching, with schools across the globe getting ready to participate in the worldwide campaign on Thursday 2nd November.
But what is the movement all about, and how can canopies help schools participate?
What is Outdoor Classroom Day?
Launched in 2012, with just a handful of schools in London participating, the Outdoor Classroom Day was created to encourage children to interact with nature at school and at home, celebrating outdoor play and learning.
The campaign then went global in 2016 thanks to sponsorship from Unilever’s ‘Dirt is Good’ brands Persil/OMO.
Now, 11 years later, schools from over 170 countries have taken part in Outdoor Classroom Day, giving over 12.2 million children the opportunity to enjoy outdoor learning.
Learning through Landscapes lead the campaign in the UK and Ireland.
When is Outdoor Classroom Day?
Outdoor Classroom Day runs twice a year in May and November, encouraging teachers and pupils to spend time outdoors in the warmer and colder months.
This year, the campaign first ran on Thursday 18th May, with the second fast approaching on Thursday 2nd November.
How can canopies help?
Having an interaction with nature is essential when it comes to outdoor learning and fun activities. Research by the Forest Schools Association in 2022 found pupils experience a reduction in stress and anxiety from outdoor learning, emphasising the importance of Outdoor Classroom Day.
And canopies play a key role this. By creating a sheltered area, pupils are able enjoy the benefits of lessons outside, protected from harmful UV rays and inclement weather.
Furthermore, a report by Natural Connections highlights how teachers have a higher job satisfaction when provided with facilities to host outdoor learning. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding environment encourages creative lesson planning and benefits all involved.
How to get involved
For inspiration and more information about the campaign, visit Learning through Landscapes’ website here.
Alternatively, if you’d like to discuss a canopy for your school to create a space for lessons outside, additional dining or cover for a walkway, contact us here and one of our expert team will be able to assist you.