The Future of Scottish Outdoor Early Learning

Laura and I attended this conference in Glasgow back in March 2026.  It was a very holistic day covering all aspects of outdoor play and learning; we heard talks about the benefits, the spaces, the science behind it and some interesting initiatives that are starting around the country. Outdoor learning is not going away; it is here to stay!

Is anyone intimidated by the term outdoor learning?

What does your mind immediately go to when you hear the term outdoor learning?

When I think of outdoor learning my mind does go to fires, tools, shelters, den making, but that is not strictly what outdoor learning is……

The point I want to make is that outdoor learning can sound intimidating.  What we need to do is flip it round to ‘learning outdoors’.

Taking note of the blossoms growing on the trees is outdoor learning…..  we are learning outdoors.

Checking on potato plants is outdoor learning….. we are learning outdoors.

Lying on our backs in the Owls and making a sketch of the clouds is outdoor learning….. we are learning outdoors.

Being outdoors and feeling the wind on our faces and noticing how it gets colder and darker when the sun goes being the clouds is outdoor learning….. we are learning outdoors.

In all the scenarios above, what is the key component to learning taking place outdoors?  YOU! These scenarios take an engaged and enthusiastic adult who is making these observations with children and is excited about the features of the outdoor environment.  If we are not stepping forward and engaging in the outdoors then our children will miss out, conversations may not extend as long, and thinking may not be challenged.

The benefits of outdoor learning are not opinions they are factual.  They are backed up by studies.  There is also scientific evidence behind children playing with soil and dirt – it is a cornerstone of early years education as it builds healthy immune systems through natural microbe exposure.

There was an experiment undertaken in Scandinavia, where a group of children spent several years in an outdoor nursery setting and this group of children went onto have better memory retention and better grades in their later years as compared to children who played and leaned in a more indoor based setting.

We also heard how 30 minutes in an outdoor green space has the same impact as taking ADHD medication in children.  It’s also proven to reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels.

It might be tricky to know where to start with outdoor learning so let’s introduce the 3 S’s:

In Summary

• Outdoor learning can sound intimidating, so let’s change the language and make it Learning Outdoors.

• WE are the key component – we need to push ourselves to engage in it.

• We know the benefits; these are factual rather than opinions.  We have an obligation to ensure that our children experience these benefits.

• To make it happen we can use the 3 S’s as a tool.  Reflecting on ourselves, our stuff and our space.

-Murray McKay-