Wellbeing through the outdoors
This World Mental Health Day, we're shining a light on something at the heart of what we do at Adventure in Learning: supporting the wellbeing of our pupils.
For young people, looking after mental and emotional health can have a huge impact on how they feel, engage and learn. That's why we know that sometimes the best learning happens when you step outside the classroom.
Our pupils have regular opportunities to get outdoors, try new experiences and learn in different environments. These experiences can give young people the space to reset, build confidence, develop relationships and re-engage with their learning.
Bushcraft at Newburn
Our pupils have been getting hands-on with bushcraft activities, including making spider webs using sticks and wool, practising firemaking and toasting marshmallows to make s'mores.
It's not just about the activity. Pupils develop practical skills, problem-solving, teamwork and confidence while enjoying time outdoors.
Learning at Bill Quay Farm
As part of their English work, our pupils have been writing diary entries inspired by Diary of a Wimpy Kid. They took their learning outside the classroom with a visit to Bill Quay Farm.
The highlight? Feeding the goats and stroking the alpacas!
Experiences like these help pupils connect their learning to the real world and create positive memories around education.
Looking after wellbeing is part of learning
Being outside and taking lessons into nature can give pupils the space to regulate their emotions, reduce stress and re-engage with learning in a grounding environment.
It can also help improve motivation and focus while encouraging positive social interactions, all of which can support a young person's learning and overall wellbeing.
A word from Brandon
As our Wellbeing, Behaviour and Learning Coach, Brandon Simpson works closely with pupils to provide tailored support with emotional regulation, engagement, behaviour and social skills. He says:
“Looking after wellbeing is part of learning, and by prioritising mental and emotional health, we enable pupils to build resilience both inside and outside the classroom.”
At Adventure in Learning, our aim is to create an environment where every pupil feels understood, supported and empowered to reach their potential.
For our families
We know that being a parent or carer can sometimes mean trying to find the right words when your child is finding things difficult.
You don't always need to have the answers. Sometimes, simply being there, listening and making time to talk can mean so much.
A walk together, a chat in the car, feeding the animals or simply spending some time outdoors can create those little moments where a young person feels able to open up.
So this World Mental Health Day, we're encouraging our families to make time for each other, check in, listen and keep the conversation about wellbeing going.
Support is available
If things feel difficult, please remember that you and your child don't have to face it alone.
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Because every conversation, every check-in and every moment of connection can make a difference.
Building resilient futures through learning adventures.
