This week we venture beyond the traditional classroom with Victoria Hackett from Outdoor Classrooms, an expert in weaving nature, play, and purpose into everyday teaching. With over a decade of experience championing outdoor education, Victoria shares how learning gardens and nature-based activities can do wonders for student wellbeing, regulation, and overall engagement—and just as importantly, how they can reignite a teacher’s sense of joy and curiosity too.

From the science behind nature’s calming effects to practical ideas that fit even the tiniest outdoor spaces (yes, even city schools!), we unpack how outdoor learning supports child development, deepens inquiry, and aligns beautifully with curriculum goals like literacy and numeracy.

Key Takeaways from this episode:

How outdoor learning helps students regulate
The developmental benefits of sensory-rich outdoor experiences
Why nature can help teachers as well as their students
Creative ways to meet literacy and numeracy outcomes through learning outdoors
Tips for making the most of small or urban environments
Why outdoor learning doesn’t stop when the weather turns
One small action teachers can take tomorrow to bring nature into their classroom

If you’ve ever wished for calmer students, more meaningful learning, or simply a change of scenery, this episode is your gentle nudge to step outside and teach in a way that feels joyful, grounded, and sustainable.

If you enjoyed this episode, we would love it if you could leave us a 5-star review.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Victoria on Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook

Victoria’s Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com

Listen to Victoria’s Podcast: The Outdoor Classrooms Podcast

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