Outdoor Classroom

It's a flexible alternative.

Research has shown that outdoor learning can have huge benefits on student mental health and academic performance. Students are often calmer and better able to focus when learning in nature, and teachers have reported better behaviour and social interactions with fewer disciplinary issues (Craig Strang, associate director of learning and teaching, Lawrence Hall of Science, 2020).

Outdoor learning is particularly important for Aboriginal children, many of whom experience difficulties with auditory processing through hearing loss. In a traditional classroom where sound bounces off the wall it can be disorientating, and affect the cooperation and attention spans of very young Aboriginal children (Moriarty Foundation, 2024). 

Gawler Primary School's outdoor classroom aims to be an alternative space where students from all backgrounds can experience learning in a different context to the usual classroom.