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Beyond the Classroom: How Outdoor Learning Spaces Can Transform School Environments in 2025

  • Rob Main
  • Nov 4
  • 3 min read

A study by Natural England found that 92% of UK teachers believe outdoor learning improves pupils’ engagement and behaviour, yet only 8% say they have access to suitable outdoor spaces on a regular basis.



It’s Time to Rethink What Counts as a Learning Space


In 2025, learning is no longer confined to the four walls of a classroom. With growing emphasis on wellbeing, engagement, and environmental awareness, outdoor learning is back in focus, and gaining traction with Ofsted too


Yet in many schools, outdoor areas are underused or overlooked. They’re treated as secondary, seasonal, or simply recreational. But with the right design, outdoor spaces can become core parts of a school’s educational offer, supporting everything from science to SEN to staff wellbeing.


School using a covered outdoor classroom setup with seating and shelter

Why Outdoor Learning Matters More Than Ever


From forest school sessions to quiet reading zones, purposeful outdoor environments offer real advantages:


  • Improved attention, behaviour and focus

  • Support for physical development and active learning

  • Stress reduction and enhanced mental health

  • Greater creativity and problem-solving

  • Stronger peer relationships through shared activity

  • Opportunities for curriculum-linked experiential learning


And it’s not just for younger students, secondary pupils benefit too, especially when it comes to mental health and movement.



Barriers to Outdoor Learning—and How Design Solves Them


 Schools often cite the same challenges:


  • “It’s not usable in bad weather”

  • “We don’t have the space”

  • “There’s nowhere to sit or store resources”

  • “It’s just tarmac and fences”


But these are all design problems with design solutions.


With some strategic planning and fit-for-purpose furniture, even a small or exposed site can become a dynamic outdoor learning zone.



What Makes an Effective Outdoor Learning Environment?


Outdoor areas should be designed with the same intention and thought as indoor classrooms. That means:


  • Defined zones – e.g. storytelling, science, sensory, social, etc.

  • Sheltered seating – canopies, pergolas, or built-in structures

  • Modular furniture – that can be moved, stacked, or folded

  • Outdoor storage – for books, materials, equipment

  • Low-maintenance materials – slip-resistant, weatherproof, robust

  • Natural elements – planters, wildlife zones, green walls

  • SEND-accessible design – with space to regulate and participate


Designing for versatility is key. These spaces should support group work, calm reflection, exploration and even whole-class teaching.



What Ofsted Says About Outdoor Provision


Inspectors are increasingly noting how the “broader curriculum” and pupil development opportunities are supported through environmental design.


Positive mentions are made when outdoor spaces:


  • Extend learning beyond the classroom

  • Reflect curriculum intent (e.g. science, geography, PSHE)

  • Offer inclusive, accessible opportunities for all pupils

  • Support wellbeing and behaviour goals


Outdoor learning isn’t a tick-box, it’s an enhancement.



How Brookhouse Helps Schools Design Outdoor Spaces That Work


At Brookhouse, we help schools turn underused outdoor areas into engaging, safe, and flexible learning spaces that complement your curriculum


Here’s what we provide:


  • Outdoor seating, planters, and canopy structures

  • Modular, weather-resistant furniture for all ages

  • Outdoor-rated storage for easy access to resources

  • Full space planning and layout zoning

  • Design solutions that include branding, signage and visual identity

  • Robust materials designed for education environments

  • Installation during term-time or holidays with minimal disruption


From sensory gardens to group shelters and courtyard classrooms, we bring learning outdoors with confidence.



Final Thought Outdoor learning environment isn’t just nice to have, it’s a chance to rethink how your whole site supports your pupils. Whether you’ve got a patch of grass or a concrete playground, the opportunity is there.


Brookhouse can help you transform the outdoors into something extraordinary. Let’s take learning outside.


Ready to put your funding to work?


Get in touch with Brookhouse on 0345 383 0050, or email us on inspire@brookhouseuk.com


Let’s design a space that enables success.





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