Sheffield Outdoor Learning Schools Conference
Sheffield Outdoor Learning Schools Conference
Wednesday 22nd March 2023
Location: Ecclesall Woods Discovery Centre, S7 2QX
Time: 9:00 - 15:30
Aimed at Sheffield schools this conference for teachers, educators, curriculum leads, outdoor visits co-ordinators is an opportunity to showcase the many opportunities and benefits available to the community of Sheffield schools. With a range of workshops and activities covering EYFS to GCSE field work. Sharing best practice and easy ideas to connect young people with the natural world for the benefits of wellbeing, growing outdoor learning and nature recovery.
On the day:
- A range of workshops in the morning and afternoon (sign up on the day).
- A range of hands on have a go activity running through the day.
- Marketplace with local and regional outdoor organisations.
- Networking opportunities.
- Lunch and refreshments provided.
Workshops include:
- Sheffield Great Outdoors! The green space around you - Learn more about the opportunities available to schools within Sheffield's amazing parks, woodlands, rivers and beyond. As The Outdoor City, find out about where and how to unlock the opportunities to create a National Curriculum using these assets on your doorstep or further afield.
- Mindfulness and connection to nature in the woods - Join experienced mindfulness practitioner from the Peak District National Park to explore the woods. Learn about the benefits of mindfulness and connection to nature. Have opportunity to try some simple practice and take away tip and ideas.
- Myth busting and best practice for planning and running trip - Risk assessments, permissions, logistics is just the tip of the iceberg when planning a trip out of schools. Join the Sheffield City Council Educational Visit Advisor - Martin Clist and Peak District National Park education team to bust some myths, share best practice and consider environmental impacts. Build confidence, skill and awareness to make your trip less stress and more fun.
- Willow weaving - During the willow weaving workshop you will create sustainable bird feeder or other willow creations.
- Fieldwork techniques - Join the Peak District National Park Education team to explore and discuss tips, techniques, equipment and best practice in fieldwork. Ranging from hydrology, ecology, carbon cycles and independent study this workshop will cover a range of themes in an informal and collaborative workshop.
- Earth education woodland walk - Join SCC Ranger Nell for a walk through the woodlands trying out a range of different earth education activities for you to re-use with your class. Ideal for KS1 and early KS2 we will use all our different senses to explore the woods. These mini activities can be used all together as a guided walk, or use them separately on a trip to get you from a to b with a fun activity on the way.
- Schools best practice and great ideas - Sheffield schools are doing some amazing things in outdoor practice. Many schools are being innovative in how they use their schools ground, local green space and great community partnership. Explore a poster display and discussing looking at ideas and examples from across the city.
- Ranger tots and outdoor fun - Suitable for EYFS practitioners. Outdoor learning is a key part of the Early Years curriculum. We need to provide opportunities for children to connect with nature, learn about the importance of respecting the natural environment in an active and fun way. Come and discover some new activities and share practical ways to teach the curriculum outdoors using low-cost or free natural resources.
For more information please contact: Woodland.discovery@sheffield.gov.uk (please note bookings cannot be taken over the phone)
Parking is free and the location is easy to get to via public transport routes. Directions and information on Ecclesall Woods can be found here.
Please note: This will be hands on day with outdoor sessions. Please come dressed for a day in the woods.
Cost: £25 per person (including lunch)
(Booking advice: Please put your school address in the address box when booking your ticket)