Birkdale pupils spend a lot of time outdoors. Outdoor education allows us to apply our academic excellence beyond the classroom, delivering our curriculum content through experiential learning.

Outdoor learning has been proven to build independence and self-esteem, as well as having vital benefits for children’s mental health. We incorporate outdoor learning into our curriculum in a number of ways:

Outdoor Classroom

Pre-Prep pupils (Reception to Year 2) have a dedicated outdoor classroom which is used extensively throughout the school year. It is a covered area with tiered seating which allows children to learn and play outside whatever the weather!

Beyond the 4 walls

Pupils from PP2-P4 benefit from 1 day out each term with the experienced team from Beyond the 4 walls. They deliver bespoke days out in the Peak District which are linked to the curriculum.

Trips

We are fortunate to be located next to the Botanical Gardens. We regularly use the gardens to exercise or explore. Endcliffe Park is another regular local destination as well as Ecclesall Woods Discovery Centre.

Residential Visits and Activity Centres in Castle and the Lake District provide the pupils with opportunities to explore their own abilities as well as the natural environment. Countryside, caves, mountains, lakes and rivers all feature as part of the outdoor world we explore.

Gardening Club

As part of a wide ranging list of clubs and societies we offer a popular gardening club. There are raised beds for planting fruit and vegetables and opportunities for pupils to plant flowers around the school grounds improving their environment.