EVERY young person should experience the world beyond the classroom.

It’s a myth to think that learning outside the classroom is “just play”– we at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have seen first-hand how play helps children develop social, emotional and physical skills.

Whether it’s learning to co-operate to complete a task like finding a hidden treasure, learning to balance as they walk along a rope bridge, or developing the confidence to understand risks and danger and set the boundaries of their play area, outdoor learning is key to children – especially younger ones – developing well.

What’s more, outdoor learning can be tailored to fit the school curriculum – what better way to learn about biology than seeing, touching, hearing and smelling it for yourself ?

Learning outside the classroom provides an alternative way of learning for children who struggle with traditional education formats.

Studies that show health and wellbeing benefits to children learning out in fresh air.

Even just having access to green space is enough to improve physical activity and reduce the chance of children developing health problems in later life. Over the coming months we’ll be looking at how we can work with schools to help kids go wild.

However there are a number of ways you can get involved in learning outside the classroom now, and the Wildlife Trust’s 30 Days Wild challenge in June is an ideal time to start:

Empty Classroom Day (June 19)

Why not find out if your local school is participating in Empty Classroom Day on June 19.

It’s a national initiative for schools and colleges to get their students learning outside of their classroom.

More than 500 schools have signed up across the country – but if your local school isn’t one of them, suggest that they add a simple half hour activity to their day.

For younger children this could get them to create the letters they’re learning using materials in nature like twigs. For older children this could be learning about the sun’s movement through shadows or photography.

Join a Wildlife Watch group

If you’re interested in outdoor learning with your child, come to one of our ten Wildlife Watch groups in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The fun activities are mostly outdoors in natural surroundings. Come prepared with a waterproof coat, wellies and a sense of fun. We also have Wildlife Rangers groups designed for teenagers. Find out when your nearest Wildlife Watch or Rangers group is meeting at www.hiwwt.org.uk/ whats-on.

Become a Forest School leader Forest School is an inspirational way of educating children, young people and adults of all abilities through hands-on learning experiences in school grounds and local woodlands. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have courses for you. Contact courses@hiwwt.org.uk or 01489 774406