A Conversation with Dawn Ewan from Mucky Boots

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In this episode of the Breaking Into the Playground podcast, host Carol Murdoch speaks with Dawn Ewan from Mucky Boots about the importance of outdoor learning and its impact on mental health. Dawn shares her journey into outdoor education, the core values of Mucky Boots, and the need for systemic change in education to support children’s development. They discuss the challenges faced by educators, the significance of community, and the role of Upstart Scotland in advocating for a more play-based approach to early childhood education. The conversation emphasises the importance of mindset, well-being, and the human element in teaching, as well as practical tips for educators looking to incorporate outdoor learning into their practice.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Outdoor Education and Mucky Boots
08:31 The Journey to Outdoor Learning
13:03 The Importance of Mindset in Education
20:12 Core Values and Philosophy at Mucky Boots
26:04 Understanding Upstart Scotland and Its Mission
31:54 Challenges in the Education System and the Role of Outdoor Learning
38:04 Transforming Spaces for Learning
39:18 The Benefits of Outdoor Learning
40:35 Managing Runners in Outdoor Settings
44:32 Empowering Children Through Trust
46:14 Shifting Teaching Dynamics
48:03 The Role of Resources in Outdoor Learning
50:19 Reflecting on Professional Development
52:54 Navigating Educational Policies
55:28 Future Directions for Outdoor Learning
59:50 Essential Tools for Outdoor Educators

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