Outdoor Learning

At HETTY, we recognise that the outdoor environment is an important part of children’s learning, development and wellbeing. Our outdoor area is available throughout the day, allowing children to move freely between indoor and outdoor play and choose where they would like to explore and learn.

Outdoor access is only restricted when weather conditions are considered extreme or unsafe. Children often enjoy playing outside in different types of weather, including the rain, as this provides valuable opportunities to investigate the natural world and enjoy new sensory experiences.

Learning Through Outdoor Play

Outdoor play supports all seven areas of learning and development within the Early Years Foundation Stage:

Communication and Language: sharing ideas, learning new words, listening and talking during play.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development: building confidence, making choices, cooperating and developing friendships.
Physical Development: running, climbing, balancing, lifting, carrying and developing coordination.
Literacy: enjoying stories outdoors, recognising signs, making marks and giving meaning to drawings.
Mathematics: counting, measuring, comparing sizes, noticing patterns and exploring shape and space.
Understanding the World: observing plants, insects, weather, seasons and changes in the natural environment.
Expressive Arts and Design: using natural and open-ended resources for imaginative play, art, music and creativity.

Outdoor learning also helps children develop independence, curiosity, problem-solving skills and resilience. It gives children space to take appropriate challenges, test their ideas and learn what their bodies can do.

Our Outdoor Area

Our outdoor area offers a changing mixture of activities and resources based on children’s interests and developmental needs. Children can also take many toys and resources from inside to continue or extend their learning outdoors.

Opportunities may include:

Planting, growing and caring for flowers and plants.
Exploring soil, water, leaves and other natural materials.
Large-scale construction using big building blocks and open-ended resources.
Imaginative and role play.
Mark-making, books, numbers and creative activities.
Bikes, balls and other physical-play equipment.
Quiet spaces for children who want to rest, observe or regulate their emotions.
Collaborative activities that encourage communication and teamwork.

We provide physical apparatus such as spinning chairs and balancing boards, which help children develop their balance, coordination, core strength, spatial awareness and confidence. Staff carefully supervise children and support them to recognise risks, make appropriate choices and challenge themselves safely.

Exploring the Forest

Through our positive relationship with Hoole CE Primary School, we are fortunate to have opportunities to use and explore the school’s forest area.

Children can investigate trees, leaves, plants, minibeasts and seasonal changes while developing their curiosity and understanding of the natural world. Time in the forest provides opportunities for movement, sensory exploration, imaginative play, communication and shared discovery.

These visits are carefully supervised and planned according to the children attending, their needs and the weather conditions.

Clothing for Outdoor Play

Please ensure your child always has named clothing suitable for the weather, as we enjoy outdoor play throughout the year.

Depending on the season, children may need:

A named waterproof coat
Suitable outdoor shoes or wellington boots
A warm hat, scarf and gloves
A sun hat
Spare clothes, including socks
Sun cream applied before arriving, where appropriate

Please clearly label every item with your child’s name. Children can become wet or muddy while investigating and playing, so comfortable, practical clothing is recommended.

Safe, Inclusive and Enjoyable Experiences

We aim to ensure outdoor learning is accessible and meaningful for every child. Staff consider children’s ages, stages of development, additional needs and individual confidence when arranging activities and providing support.

Our team carries out appropriate checks and risk assessments while recognising that carefully managed challenge is an important part of children’s development. Children are encouraged to explore, make decisions and develop their abilities within a secure and supportive environment.

Further Information

Our outdoor provision is guided by the statutory requirements and educational programmes of the EYFS. You can find further information below: