What's new

This 2022 briefing (EIN063) updates Natural England's 2016 evidence briefing (EIN017). It covers two things: the impacts of learning in natural environments, and the impacts of natural environments on learning processes, outcomes and health. It considers evidence relevant to the UK, for both adults and children, and does not cover barriers to access. It states that over the last 10–15 years the quality of research in this area and the robustness of its findings have significantly improved. It notes that more evidence is now available on individual outcomes, on how these are enabled, and on whether outcomes are more likely to come from learning outdoors, or from a mix of indoor and outdoor learning, than from the classroom alone. It reports that evidence continues to suggest that more natural environment in or around living or educational settings is associated with positive learning, behavioural and emotional processes and outcomes, as well as health benefits.

Why it matters in Aotearoa

It is an evidence summary from a UK public body that EOTC coordinators can use to support regular, curriculum-linked learning in local natural places, including school grounds.

Putting it into practice

Share the key messages with staff when planning to shift some regular lessons into the school grounds or a nearby park, reserve or beach.

How strong is the evidence

This is an evidence briefing that summarises existing research rather than reporting a new study. Its key findings are framed as associations between natural environments and outcomes, not as proven causal effects.

What to read

The EIN063 briefing (PDF) available from Natural England's Access to Evidence site.

Who it's for