A week in the wild classroom

In the build-up to Outdoor Classroom Day [November 2025], we’ve been reflecting on the transformative power of learning beyond the walls of traditional education. Today, we’re celebrating one programme in particular-The OWL Collaboration-which takes outdoor learning to a whole new level.

An outdoor classroom is one thing. But what happens when children and young people are offered a week-long immersive experience in nature-a whole week in an Outdoor Classroom!

This isn’t just about time in green spaces, in crisp, autumn air; it’s about time away from home where the rhythms of daily life—food, sleep, and even digital habits—are reset.  After 4 years of the programme, we know that the impact of this immersive experience can be profound. We’ve seen pupils whose school attendance has leapt after a reset week on the farm led to a reset of routines back at home; we’ve had pupils reduce their ADHD medication, following a week of movement in the outdoors and we’ve had pupils find their voice in front of their peers-for the first time.  These aren’t just anecdotes—they’re powerful indicators of what happens when young people are given space to breathe, explore, move and reconnect.

Some of the shifts we see on an Outdoor Week of Learning:

• Routine and reset
  

  The residential aspect allows for a full reset-nutritious meals, better sleep, and a digital detox. These foundational shifts can lead to lasting changes in behaviour and wellbeing.

• Ownership and responsibility
  

  With time to try things more than once, pupils begin to take ownership of tasks. A move away from activities providing instant gratification to those that nurture responsibility also creates a sense of purpose, helping pupils feel consequential and able to reflect on their place in the natural world.

• Weathering the elements
  

  Experiencing nature in all its unpredictability-damp boots, cold fingers, and the joy of sunshine-teaches resilience and appreciation. It’s real, and it’s memorable.

• Shared challenges and triumphs
  

  Teachers and pupils alike face new challenges. Whether it’s trying something scary, failing together, or succeeding as a team, these shared experiences shift relationships and build trust.

• Discovering hidden strengths
  

  Pupils who struggle in traditional classrooms often shine in the outdoor setting. They find skills they didn’t know they had—and sometimes, for the first time, they excel in front of their peers and teachers.

• Structured and unstructured time
  

  The balance of planned activities and free exploration allows creativity and curiosity to flourish.

As one teacher put it, 

The OWL Collaboration reminds us that learning doesn’t have to be confined to desks and whiteboards. Sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from muddy boots, shared meals, and the freedom to explore.

Thank you to all our valued partners in The OWL Collaboration who work so hard to bring all their Outdoor Classrooms to life-every day!