--- title: "Duke of Edinburgh/Outdoor Learning" url: "https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/subjects/duke-of-edinburgh-outdoor-learning" school: "Hartlepool Free School" --- # Duke of Edinburgh/Outdoor Learning ## Why Teach Duke of Edinburgh/Outdoor Learning? Learning new skills, learning outdoors and learning in nature, alongside taking part in physical activity all contribute to improving wellbeing and confidence, as well as improving cultural capital and social skills. The Outdoor learning and Duke of Edinburgh curriculum allow students to explore aspects of humanities via trips and visits, use skills learned in the classroom such as map reading and coordinates, gather artefacts for subjects such as biology and humanities and learn about being citizens. As learners progress through the school they will be expected to develop their levels of self-management – e.g. co-planning their trips and activity. ### Curriculum Intent - Develop cultural capital locally - Improved wellbeing as a result of learning in the outdoor environment - Learn about aspects of SMSC and RE in a practical way - Engage in a low-level physical activity and understand about its importance - Help others and understand about being part of the community - Learn in a different and practical environment to encourage an enjoyment of learning and foster interest the subjects being learned across the curriculum. ### ### Curriculum Implementation In Lower school students will: Our Outdoor Education curriculum aims to give all pupils regular opportunities to learn outside the classroom. Through the Woodland Trust Green Tree Schools Award, children develop an understanding of trees, wildlife and the environment. We want pupils to build respect for nature, understand sustainability, and feel responsible for protecting the world around them. Outdoor learning also supports pupils’ wellbeing, helping them to become confident, resilient, and independent learners who enjoy hands-on, real-life experiences. In Upper School students will: Engage in a progressive programme that enables them to discover the natural world through learning about habitats, ecosystems and biodiversity. They explore their environment through outdoor learning, fieldwork and enquiry-based activities, while participating in conservation projects that contribute to environmental improvement. Students are given opportunities to share their learning by communicating findings, raising awareness and advocating for positive change. Through volunteering and community engagement, they make meaningful contributions to both school and local projects, while educational visits provide first-hand experiences of real-world environments, organisations and career pathways, bringing learning to life beyond the classroom. In KS4 students will: Students follow a structured and progressive programme across the Physical, Volunteering and Skills sections of the Duke of Edinburgh award, supported by timetabled sessions and independent practice. They are guided to select appropriate activities, set meaningful personal goals and engage in regular participation over time. Teaching focuses on: - Developing understanding of each section and its purpose. - Supporting students to plan, track and reflect on their progress. - Providing opportunities for both practical application and personal choice. - Encouraging consistent commitment through weekly engagement. - Take part in a rotation of activities including careers visits, visits to places of interest outside of the local area and build an awareness of the wider North-east England geography and cultural capital. - Develop the resilience to take part in an extended walk. - Take part in an expedition. ### ### Curriculum Impact In lower school students will be able to: Develop a strong understanding of the environment and show greater respect for nature. They become more confident, resilient, and motivated learners who enjoy working practically and collaboratively. Outdoor learning supports pupils’ physical and emotional wellbeing and improves skills such as teamwork, communication and problem solving. Pupils take pride in their achievements through the Green Tree Schools Award and leave school with a positive attitude towards learning and the environment. By the end of Key Stage 3, students will be able to: Understand how ecosystems function, the importance of biodiversity and sustainability, and how they can positively influence their environment and community. They will be able to conduct investigations, analyse data, contribute to conservation projects, and take on leadership roles. As a result, students will become environmentally literate, responsible citizens who are confident communicators and active contributors to their community. Impact will be evidenced through student voice, environmental action projects, volunteering and leadership opportunities, enhanced school biodiversity, and strong community partnerships. By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to: Participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award which enables students to develop resilience, independence and self-discipline through sustained commitment to physical, skills, volunteering and expedition activities. Students grow in confidence, leadership and teamwork while gaining a deeper understanding of their role within the community through service and volunteering. As a result, they become more responsible, capable and socially aware young people, equipped with the personal qualities and life skills needed for future success. Impact is evidenced through completion of Award sections, participant logs, assessor reports, reflective evaluations, and increased engagement in community and leadership opportunities. ![Hartlepool Free School](https://files.schudio.com/hartlepool-free-school-2/images/logo/Harltepool-free-school-white-logo.png) #### Hartlepool Free School Hedgehog Lane Hartlepool TS25 1FF 01429 450081 #### Useful Links - [Term Dates](https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/term-dates) - [Curriculum ](https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/curriculum-overview) - [Policies](https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/policies) - [Trust Information](https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/statutory-documents) **Make it Different** is a limited company registered in England and Wales. **Company Registration No:** 12230116. **Registered office:** Hartlepool Free School, Hedgehog Lane, Hartlepool, TS25 1FF. © Copyright 2024–2026 Hartlepool Free School School & Trust Websites by [ ![Schudio logo](https://makeitdifferent.org.uk/img/logo/light.png) ](https://www.schudio.com/)