At Eco Classrooms & Nurseries, our buildings are designed not only to provide the extra space your school or nursery needs — they also unlock powerful opportunities for outdoor learning. Research continues to show that spending time outside has significant cognitive, emotional, and physical benefits for children, and these advantages translate directly into improved learning outcomes.

With schools increasingly exploring outdoor classroom design as part of their wider learning strategy, here’s how connecting with nature can transform the student experience.

1. Improved Academic Performance

Outdoor learning isn’t just enjoyable — it has proven academic benefits.
A study in California found that pupils who attended an outdoor education programme saw their test scores increase by 27%. Around 250 students across four schools took part, and improvements extended far beyond exam results.

Children also showed measurable gains in:

• Self-esteem
• Problem-solving skills
• Classroom behaviour
• Peer relationships
• Confidence in group settings

This demonstrates a key principle: when children feel happier, calmer, and more connected to their environment, they learn better.

Related reading:
Ways to encourage outdoor learning in the classroom

2. Encourages Independent Development

Traditional classroom layouts can sometimes limit movement, creativity, and self-directed exploration. In contrast, outdoor environments naturally give children:

• More freedom to explore
• Space to move and experiment
• Opportunities for imaginative play
• Greater independence in decision-making

Outdoor learning boosts self-awareness and confidence as pupils take ownership of tasks, solve problems collaboratively, and use their creativity in a more open setting.

3. Better Physical & Mental Health

Children who spend more time outdoors typically experience:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved concentration
• Better sleep patterns
• Healthier physical activity levels

Fresh air, natural light, and exposure to plants and greenery are known to support psychological wellbeing — for both adults and children. Running, climbing, and exploring nature allows pupils to channel their energy positively while developing healthy habits for later life.

4. Stronger Connection With Nature

At a time when environmental awareness is more important than ever, outdoor learning helps children build a lifelong connection with the natural world.

Exploring nature in a safe school environment allows children to:

• Understand ecosystems and biodiversity
• Appreciate seasonal changes
• Learn about sustainability
• Feel confident engaging with nature beyond school

Eco Classrooms & Nurseries are built using eco-friendly materials and can incorporate features such as green roofs or wildlife-friendly landscaping, making the building itself a learning tool.

5. More Creative Teaching Opportunities

Outdoor spaces give teachers far more flexibility than a traditional indoor environment. Lessons that work outdoors include:

• Science experiments
• Art and nature projects
• Storytelling
• Orienteering
• Gardening
• Sensory exploration

Whether it’s identifying species, planting vegetables, or using a compass for treasure hunts, outdoor learning is naturally more tactile, practical, and memorable.

6. Hands-On, Tactile Learning Experiences

Children learn best when they can touch, move, build, and experiment. Outdoor learning encourages:

• Practical skills
• Curiosity and inquiry-led learning
• Real-world problem solving
• Team collaboration

From gardening projects to mini nature trails, outdoor activities support the development of motor skills, resilience, and resourcefulness.

Creating the Perfect Outdoor Learning Environment

Our Eco Classrooms and Nurseries can be designed specifically around outdoor learning — with seamless indoor–outdoor access, covered decking, outdoor wash stations, and natural materials that complement your surroundings.

Whether you want a dedicated outdoor classroom, a multi-use teaching space, or a nature-inspired nursery building, we can build a tailored solution that helps your school embrace outdoor learning as often as possible.

Ready to Enhance Outdoor Learning at Your School?

Eco Classrooms & Nurseries create sustainable, high-quality spaces that support the wellbeing and development of students. If you’re considering adding an outdoor classroom or want to explore design options, our team would love to help.

Get in touch today to discuss your project.