House of Commons · Westminster Hall
11 June 2025 · 11 other contributors · 4,901 words
Opened by Tim Farron Lib Dem Westmorland and Lonsdale
Responding minister: Catherine McKinnell
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Tim Farron raised concerns about outdoor education in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Farron calls for the government to ringfence education funding for outdoor education at early stages and ensure children have access to natural environments. He also suggests cross-party working across devolved nations like Northern Ireland which has invested £4 million in enhancing high-quality outdoor learning experiences.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Tim Farron highlights the importance of outdoor education centres in his constituency such as Bendrigg Trust, Brathay, Outward Bound Trust, Patterdale Outdoor Education Centre, and several university and local authority-owned centres. He mentions that research from the University of Cumbria demonstrates significant benefits for young people including confidence building, character development, risk awareness, and engagement with nature.
MacNae agrees with the value of outdoor education within the curriculum and suggests that Ofsted should encourage greater use of the outdoors, potentially making outstanding schools a requirement for providing access to outdoor learning.
Integrating outdoor education in the curriculum is crucial to inspire the next generation to appreciate nature and promote recovery.
Stated that the Nature Education Park is adaptable to school needs, ensuring all children have access to enrichment activities. Emphasized the importance of teacher training and pupil premium funding for equal access.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s award and Briars Field forest school provide vital outdoor education, particularly for young children with special educational needs.
Engagement with farms and agriculture through residential weekends can inspire the next generation of agricultural students and conservationists.
Shannon commends Tim Farron for his debate and highlights Northern Ireland's outdoor learning project which has invested £4 million in enhancing high-quality outdoor learning experiences.
Ellis agrees that if we want young people to grow up with the benefits of outdoor education and an appreciation for nature, ringfenced education funding is essential at early stages. She mentions Viki Mason's forest school practitioner work in her constituency which faces funding struggles.
Brickell commends Tim Farron for securing the debate and mentions the Supreme Court judgment upholding the right to wild camp on Dartmoor. He argues that the Government must urgently introduce primary legislation to expand the right to roam on land and water across England.
Adam suggests an exchange programme between rural and urban schools to help children in urban areas without gardens to enjoy outdoor experiences and benefit from them. Asked about considerations for children with sensitivity issues and special educational needs in the programme.
Collaborative outdoor projects have shown transformative impacts, especially for those with special educational needs.
Stone thanks Mike Harrison of Green Trees Forest School for his work on tackling knife crime through outdoor education and emphasizes the societal benefits beyond just educational outcomes.
Government Response
Catherine McKinnellThe Minister for School Standards
Acknowledges the importance of outdoor education and access to nature for children's development. Commits to ensuring a rich and broad curriculum that breaks down barriers to opportunity, supporting resilience and skill-building in young people.