Early Years Team celebrates Wales Outdoor Learning Week.
As Wales Outdoor Learning Week unfolds, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Early Years Team is proud to highlight the benefits, opportunities and endless possibilities of outdoor education, particularly in early years settings.
The team proudly places a significant emphasis on the rewarding experiences benefits and opportunities offered by outdoor play. Throughout the week, students have been exploring the outdoors and considering the awe and wonder that takes place when adults provide children the time to explore interesting outdoor environments. These outdoor experiences support holistic learning which aligns with the principles of the Curriculum for Wales, Curriculum for funded non-maintained settings and quality early years provision.
Students have engaged in a variety of activities from exploring the patterns and cycles of the natural world to the inspiration offered for expressive arts. They have also constructed dens and made potions by exploring mathematical and science learning. More importantly, they’ve been engaging in conversations about the world around them which reflects the importance of children also having time to chat and discuss in a relaxed and fun environment, and how this supports language development, literacy and wider wellbeing.
UWTSD’s Early Years Lecturer and Admissions tutor, Glenda Tinney said:
“Outdoor experiences this year have allowed us to reflect on the importance of using whatever outdoor space we may have to develop children’s curiosity and exploration. We also have visited St Thomas Community Primary School where students have been able to see how children in foundation learning benefit from being in an outdoor learning environment and developing ideas on their role to support child led learning and exploration.
Glenda was very lucky recently to contribute to a resource from Cwlwm and Mudiad Meithrin ‘Celebrating our adults, experiences and environment’ Curriculum for Wales - Meithrin’. She adds:
“I have also enjoyed joining Mudiad Meithrin Training Days - ‘Being Outdoors’ where I’ve been delivering practical outdoor workshops similar to those developed on The Early Years Education and Care outdoor modules. It’s been a lovely opportunity to get out and about across Wales to hear what is happening in terms of outdoor play and creativity while also sharing ideas, and has also been lovely to celebrate outdoor learning week practically.
“The workshops have emphasised key aspects of Welsh early years pedagogy focusing on enabling adults, fostering engaging experiences and creating effective environments.”
For those interested in learning more about UWTSD’s courses and opportunities, please contact: g.tinney@uwtsd.ac.uk info@uwtsd.ac.uk
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476