Northern Irish Policies Supporting Outdoor Learning
There is always debate over which documents, policies, and guidelines are essential and which are less relevant. Furthermore, we question whether documents alone are enough to support staff delivering outdoor learning or if something more—such as professional development, networking, or case studies—is required. Some of these documents you will no doubt be very familiar with, while others may be less well known. We have collated them here to support you.
The Northern Ireland Curriculum
The Northern Ireland Curriculum encourages the integration of outdoor learning across various subjects. It emphasizes that outdoor experiences can enhance key learning skills such as collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving. Teachers are encouraged to utilize outdoor environments to enrich subjects like Science, Geography, and Physical Education.
📄 Access the curriculum: Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA)
Outdoor Learning Project (2025)
Launched in February 2025, the Outdoor Learning Project represents a £4 million investment aimed at enhancing outdoor learning experiences in pre-schools, nursery schools, primary schools, and special schools. The project provides funding for outdoor furniture and equipment to support high-quality outdoor learning, aiming to increase children’s physical and mental well-being, motivation, and engagement.
📄 Read more: Department of Education
📄 Guidance for Schools: Outdoor Learning Project Guidance
Learning Outdoors (CCEA)
This guidance document by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA) provides insights into implementing outdoor learning in educational settings. It highlights the benefits of outdoor learning, offers practical advice on planning and delivering outdoor activities, and emphasizes the role of nature in children’s development.
📄 Download the document: Learning Outdoors – CCEA
Eco-Schools Programme
Operated by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, the Eco-Schools Programme is an environmental education initiative that encourages schools to engage in sustainable practices. It promotes outdoor learning as a means to connect students with their environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship. The program provides resources and support for schools to develop outdoor learning projects.
📄 Learn more: Eco-Schools Northern Ireland
📄 Outdoor Learning Resource: Eco-Schools NI Outdoor Learning
Forest School Initiative
The Forest School approach has been adopted in Northern Ireland to provide regular outdoor sessions in woodland environments. This initiative aims to develop confidence, self-esteem, and a deep connection with nature among students. The Northern Ireland Forest School Association (NIFSA) supports schools in implementing Forest School programs, offering training and resources to educators.
📄 Read more: Northern Ireland Forest School Association
📄 Forest School Overview: Forest School (Learning Style) – Wikipedia
Taking Outdoor Play Seriously (PlayBoard NI)
This guidance emphasizes the importance of outdoor play in children’s development. It offers practical advice for schools on enhancing outdoor play opportunities, aligning outdoor activities with curriculum goals, and creating engaging outdoor environments. The document also addresses considerations for safety and inclusivity in outdoor play.
📄 Download the guidance: Taking Outdoor Play Seriously – PlayBoard NI
Outdoor Learning Service (Education Authority Northern Ireland)
The Education Authority provides an Outdoor Learning Service that offers information, guidance, and support for schools. This service includes policies and procedures related to outdoor learning, aiming to assist educators in effectively integrating outdoor experiences into their teaching practices.
📄 Access the service: Education Authority Northern Ireland
Conclusion
These policies and initiatives provide a robust framework for supporting outdoor learning in Northern Ireland. However, documents alone are not enough. Teachers and outdoor learning practitioners need ongoing professional development, resources, and networks to fully embed outdoor experiences into education.
