Why does Ofsted look for learning outside the classroom?

Interested in taking this forward in your school? Then read on.

Christine Gilbert, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector said:
“The positive impact of learning outside the classroom is widely recognised”
http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/Ofsted-home/News/Press-and-media/2008/October/Report-highlights-the-benefit-of-learning-outside-the-classroom

Within the Diocese of Blackburn our schools and churches have been working towards creating exciting opportunities for “learning outside the classroom” across the Key stages. As a part of the RE Syllabus, in both primary and secondary, visiting sacred spaces, accessing places of worship and visiting faith communities can also facilitate opportunities for children and young people to learn out side of the classroom. This is an integral part of the curriculum and community cohesion agenda.

The recent report also highlighted the links to SEAL,

“learning outside the classroom can improve other outcomes for children as well as raising academic standards. Activities such as volunteering were shown to have a positive impact on the social development of pupils in some of the survey schools. In addition, work experience, or activities such as enterprise clubs, can encourage innovation and creativity”

If you want to make new links and develop new learning experiences below are some websites that may help you

1. Report highlights the benefit of learning outside the classroom ...

Learning outside the classroom: how far should you go? is the latest report from the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills ...
www.ofsted.gov.uk/.../Report-highlights-the-benefit-of-learning-outside-the-classroom -

2. North West Multi-Faith Tourism Association - Home

The aim of the North West Multi Faith Tourism Association is to raise awareness of, and to make this heritage available and accessible to as many people as ...
www.multi-faith.org/

3. Welcome to Whalley Abbey - Whalley Abbey in the Ribble Valley

Standing on the banks of the River Calder, Whalley Abbey has been a focal point for hospitality since the fourteenth century. Bring a class/a year group or the whole school for a complete monastic/pilgrimage experience, multisensory garden, creative prayer opportunities & visitors centre. There are also “Monk” guides available. This may be linked to your R.E. or other curriculum topic.
www.whalleyabbey.co.uk/

Visiting Churches

This document has been developed by Helen Sage for use by schools when visiting churches. It can be used as a sample document when planning visits and activities. Click here to download the document