At Zip World, we firmly and adamantly believe that the best classrooms on the planet are found outdoors. There is so much that our kids can learn just from being close to nature.
This post is from some time ago, so the information may no longer be accurate or valid.
A classroom with a difference
At Zip World, we firmly and adamantly believe that the best classrooms on the planet are found outdoors. There is so much that our kids can learn just from being close to nature.
We learn to respect the fearsome power of nature, we learn to treat our planet with care, and we learn about the near endless beauty that can be found in rivers, forests and mountain ranges. Teaching outdoors means children who would otherwise be unable to immerse themselves in the natural world can discover a whole universe that lives just beyond their neighbourhood and town.
It doesn’t just stop there. A study recently revealed a whole host of additional benefits beyond the scope of learning. The study found that kids were more receptive to learning, feeling more energised, creative and freer to express themselves. Being outdoors allowed them to associate lessons with play, which forms a key element of childhood development. That’s not to mention the clear physical and mental health benefits that come with taking learning into the outdoor world.
The study’s findings just confirm something we at Zip World have always known and in light of the results, we’re getting more and more excited about the recent launch of the brand-new Zip World Educational Programme.
This programme brings teachers and their pupils out into nature in beautiful North Wales to our three sites, where as well as taking on our adventure experiences, kids will benefit from detailed lesson plans, worksheets and pre-and-post visit PowerPoint presentations for use in the classroom. They’ll learn about nature and sustainability, and they’ll also get a taste of Welsh culture and history in unforgettable surroundings (whether at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry, Bethesda; Zip World Fforest, Betws-y-Coed; or Zip World Slate Caverns, Blaenau Ffestiniog. Teachers and parents can rest assured that their pupils and children are in good hands - we’re accredited by the LOtC (Council for Learning Outside the Classroom).
Sound good? Download our free starter pack now and take a look at how we can help bring Science and Geography to life this term!
For more information, visit our Educational Programme page here.
