Learning Outside the Classroom

Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) is an integral part of school life, furthering the education of the pupils. When outdoor learning and visits are arranged for pupils, they support their social and academic needs.

LOtC is vibrant and varied at Barnes Infant Academy and describes any learning opportunity that does not solely involve teacher instruction within the classroom environment.
LOtC includes but is not exclusive or limited to:
  • Learning within the outdoor environment
  • External trips and visits
  • Exploration of our school and its surroundings
  • Curriculum projects
  • Theme days/weeks
  • Performance

Mission Statement

“Barnes Infant Academy endeavours to provide valuable experiences beyond the world of the classroom as an essential part of learning and personal development, to all pupils no matter their age, ability or circumstances”.
Aims
Barnes Infant Academy aims to:
  • Provide a range of outdoor learning experiences for all children, whatever their individual needs
  • Offer pupils exciting and stimulating experiences to motivate their learning journey
  • Develop the outdoor learning environment to significantly contribute towards the raising of standards and improving pupils’ personal, social and emotional development
  • Advocate learning outside the classroom so pupils can apply learning in various real-world contexts, broadening their horizons, aspirations and future lives
  • Support curriculum development through using the local environment and community
  • Offer opportunities outside of the classroom for pupils to further develop their social skills, confidence and self-esteem
  • Promote learning outside the classroom to add value to the children’s everyday experiences in the classroom
  • Encourage opportunities for achievement to be celebrated, through concerts and award ceremonies
  • Employ knowledgeable and enthusiastic adults, who are crucial to unlocking the potential of outdoors

Our Offer

Learning outdoors
The Academy site includes a specifically designed outdoor environment that is continually assessed and enhanced to develop optimum provision for the children. (links through to the 360 degree external footage)
External trips and visits
Opportunities for children to engage in learning beyond school grounds are regularly planned and actively encouraged. Educational visits complement and extend learning by taking pupils outside their familiar environment to arouse curiosity, fuel their imagination and motivate a powerful love of learning in the wider world.
The local environment
There is also much to be explored ‘on the doorstep’ of the Academy within the vibrant local community and all classes actively participate in:
  • Visiting local religious and community buildings
  • Taking part in local festivals and events
  • Going to use local resources such as libraries and museums
  • Exploring local amenities such as parks and the beach
Curriculum projects
Specific curriculum projects are planned outside of the classroom to promote understanding and application of learning.
Theme days/weeks
The Academy holds themed days and weeks linked to areas of learning. External visits and guest speakers may form part of the themed event.
Performance
All children are given the opportunity to take part in performances outside of the classroom. Children often perform for their peers as well as parents/carers and school staff and Governors.

Extra-curricular activities
A regular programme of extra-curricular activities are provided and encouraged outside of the classroom. Children are able to sign up to take part in activities with parental consent.