Why developing outdoor education is important

This is me. Around 3 years old in the back garden of my house in the Rhondda Valleys. From a very early age I have been lucky enough to be encouraged to explore the outdoors. I think that all teachers should be using and encouraging outdoor learning. In this post I intend to outline why. To me the barriers of excess risk assessment (it's not that difficult and, in my view, forms an essential part of trip planning) and staff cover (there are always ways around that).

I should add that this is all from a personal perspective of being a qualified mountain leader, general outdoors bod and the experiences of using the outdoors in teaching.
Stories, seeing other places is one of the best things that young people can do. Getting into scrapes, pushing personal boundaries, and getting out of the comfort zone all expand perspective. This has a huge, positive, effect on young people's self esteem.

Friends: The outdoors is a life long journey of learning. As well as fitness, my most enduring friendships are those that were forged during an epic encounter with the wilds.

Personal Development: Many of the skills that employers are looking for can be developed in the outdoor environment. I am, naturally a shy type, honest ;). Through the outdoors I was able to develop team work, social skills, organisation and evaluations skills. I also learnt to take most things with a pinch of salt, and not to be afraid to look silly! My fussy eating also vanished, as if you don't eat the food then your go hungry!

Problem solving: So how do you get the person snoring the roof down out of the dorm? What should I prioritise with? Extra food or full waterproofs?

Collaboration: One of the most valuable skills developed in the outdoors is collaboration. I soon learnt that going it alone was not the best way to earn the trust of my climbing partners. I had to adapt. For example, one of the toughest lessons for young people in the outdoors to learn is to move at the pace of the slowest person. I have seen young people develop this skill and then develop subtle ways of not letting their team mates feel bad. I remember one particular lad who would pretend to tie his shoe laces in order to let people catch up.

So how can this be developed? Of course, my view is that every school should be encouraging residentials to outdoor centres, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme and adventure. However, you can encourage a young persons interest by helping them to find a local caving/climbing/biking club, or just by listening to their stories of exploration and adventure. In addition, instead of staying inside, let's get outside more!