A BBC News article highlights a compelling UK Study showing that just 20 minutes spent in nature can significantly reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing. Researchers found that participants who spent at least 120 minutes per week in green spaces were significantly more likely to report a positive impact on happiness and wellbeing. This reinforces what many educators and outdoor learning advocates have long known: nature is a powerful tool for health and learning.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND OUTDOOR BENEFITS
This isn’t an isolated finding. A growing body of research supports the idea that time spent outdoors boosts physical, emotional, and cognitive development in children:
UNICEF reports that outdoor play improves physical health, social skills, and concentration, especially when children engage in free play in natural settings.
A University of Melbourne review found that exposure to nature—whether through walks, gardening, or simply viewing greenery—enhances attention and working memory in school-aged children.
The University of Wisconsin summarised studies showing that outdoor education improves test scores, behaviour, attendance, and overall student engagement.
BRINGING NATURE INTO SCHOOLS
For teachers, this research offers a clear call to action: integrate nature into the school day. Whether it’s outdoor lessons, nature walks, or green school grounds, consistent exposure to natural environments can:
Improve focus and reduce stress
Support emotional regulation and resilience
Enhance creativity and problem-solving
Foster environmental stewardship
The BBC acknowledges that we can't always just "head into the woods on a whim"! Fair point.
It goes on to say that even "small touches of nature" at home - or in our context the classroom - can make a difference. They suggest that flowers, diffusers, and even pictures of forests can help trigger the same calming brainwaves.
IMMERSING YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE ENVIRONMENT
You know I have to make the link to residentials at this point already don't you?! Well, If 20 minutes in nature can reduce stress, imagine the transformative power of a multi-day school residential trip immersed in the outdoors. I know I know! Residentials offer learners:
A digital detox from screens and social media.
Opportunities to build confidence, independence, and teamwork
A chance to connect deeply with nature, fostering lifelong appreciation of the outdoors, and maybe a spirit of adventure!
We design residentials specifically to support mental health, resilience, and personal growth. These experiences go beyond physical activity — they help children reflect, recharge, and develop tools to not only cope, but to thrive in school and life. Being immersed in a memorable environment is a key part of helping the learning to stick.
FINAL THOUGHT
As educators, we have the opportunity to harness nature’s healing power — not just for academic success, but for the holistic wellbeing of the young people in our care. Whether it’s discovering a wild part of the school grounds or a week in the woods, every moment outdoors counts.
Go and enjoy the autumn colours this weekend. It's spectacular out here.
Best wishes,
The SRES Team.
We love this resource from The John Muir Trust: "Creativity, Nature & Mental Health: A collection of poems & reflections"
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