The Conservative Party, or at least one influential member, may be at odds with us over a Thames Estuary airport. But we are wholly at one over children and the outdoors – we need more of it, a lot more, and soon.
Peter Ainsworth, the shadow minister, yesterday told his party conference colleagues what a great time he had had pond dipping at the RSPB’s Sandwell reserve close to the conference centre in Birmingham.
He described Sandwell as a wonderful oasis despite its proximity to this large city. The children’s activities at Sandwell were a fine example of youngsters enjoying and learning from their local environment, an illustration of another of the many benefits of green spaces in urban sites.
Mr Ainsworth’s words came just hours before the publication today of a report by Ofsted, which says that involvement in outdoor activities boosts children’s chances of doing well at school.
When outdoor learning is made part of the curriculum rather than merely a treat, children improve socially and become more innovative and creative, Ofsted says. Ed Balls, the schools secretary, is backing Ofsted’s call with the launch today of a £4.5 million plan to encourage outdoor learning.
The RSPB is backing the plan and is convinced that outdoor experiences are one sure way of bringing up youngsters who care for the environment, and keep caring as they get older.
But this ‘real world’ learning does even more than that; it boosts health and good neighbourliness and encourages social inclusion.
More than 60,000 youngsters aged from three to 18 visit RSPB reserves every year. Some of them will have been at Sandwell’s pond, sharing the fun Mr Ainsworth was having.
Fresh air, the wonder at a new discovery and the thrill of a new experience are amongst the long-standing benefits even the simplest of outdoor activities can provide.
They help shape young people into more rounded, open minded, caring and sharing individuals. Those we need more of, and soon.
Read about children’s activities on RSPB reserves here http://www.rspb.org.uk/school_visits/index.asp
And about the RSPB and education here http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/policy/education/
The Ofsted report is here http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/
And the Ed Balls’ plan here http://www.lotc.org.uk/