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Training & Resources

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The Muddy Puddle Teacher

SEND & EAL Outdoor Learning Training

This SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and EAL (English as an Additional Language) Outdoor Learning Training equips educators with the skills and confidence to deliver inclusive, engaging, and impactful outdoor learning sessions. Rooted in the Muddy Puddle Teacher (MPT) approach, this course uses nature and hands-on activities to foster language development, sensory engagement, and individual growth.

Course Costs

Course Goals

  1. Understand the unique benefits of outdoor learning for SEND and EAL learners.
  2. Learn how to design inclusive outdoor learning activities.
  3. Build confidence in adapting lessons for diverse needs and language levels.
  4. Foster communication, sensory exploration, and independence in outdoor settings.
  5. Promote environmental engagement and sustainability in learning.

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Course Timeline

  • 9:30-2:30pm
  • 1-year access to course materials, resources, and downloadable content.

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Course Modules

Module 1: The Benefits of Outdoor Learning for SEND and EAL Learners

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Understand how outdoor learning supports language development, sensory needs, and cognitive growth.
    • Explore the unique challenges and opportunities of teaching SEND and EAL learners outdoors.
  • Key Topics:
    • Benefits of nature-based learning for mental health and engagement.
    • Building confidence, creativity, and independence outdoors.
    • Supporting social interaction in natural settings.
  • Practical Task:
    • Reflect on current practices and identify ways to incorporate outdoor learning for SEND and EAL learners.

Module 2: Designing Inclusive Outdoor Learning Activities

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Plan activities that accommodate diverse abilities and language levels.
    • Use natural resources to create accessible and inclusive lessons.
  • Key Topics:
    • Adapting lessons for sensory, cognitive, and physical needs.
    • Supporting EAL learners with visual aids, gestures, and storytelling.
    • Using natural resources (e.g., sticks, stones, mud) as universal tools.
  • Practical Task:
    • Develop an inclusive outdoor lesson plan tailored for both SEND and EAL learners.

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Module 3: Sensory and Language-Focused Activities

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Create sensory-rich activities that support SEND learners.
    • Design language-focused activities to develop EAL learners’ vocabulary and communication skills.
  • Key Topics:
    • Sensory trails, touch-and-feel boards, and natural soundscapes.
    • Using storytelling, songs, and role-play outdoors for language learning.
    • Incorporating movement and sensory play to enhance understanding.
  • Practical Task:
    • Create a sensory trail or storytelling activity for a mixed-ability group.

Module 4: Building Social and Emotional Skills Outdoors

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Foster collaboration, communication, and emotional regulation through outdoor activities.
    • Support peer interaction and teamwork in natural settings.
  • Key Topics:
    • Cooperative games that encourage turn-taking, sharing, and listening.
    • Mindfulness exercises and grounding techniques in nature.
    • Building confidence through success in outdoor tasks.
  • Practical Task:
    • Design a team-building outdoor activity for SEND and EAL learners.

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Module 5: Risk Management and Accessibility

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Ensure outdoor learning spaces are safe, inclusive, and accessible for all learners.
    • Learn how to assess and manage risks specific to SEND and EAL needs.
  • Key Topics:
    • Conducting thorough risk assessments with a focus on accessibility.
    • Adapting outdoor spaces for physical and sensory needs.
    • Emergency planning and first aid considerations.
  • Practical Task:
    • Create a risk assessment for an outdoor activity involving SEND and EAL learners.

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Module 6: Evaluation and Progress Tracking

  • Learning Objectives:
    • Monitor and assess the progress of SEND and EAL learners in outdoor settings.
    • Use reflective practices to improve outdoor learning experiences continuously.
  • Key Topics:
    • Observation techniques and using visual checklists.
    • Engaging parents and carers in the learning process.
    • Documenting and celebrating small achievements.
  • Practical Task:
    • Develop a progress-tracking template for outdoor sessions.

Course Resources

  • Inclusive outdoor activity templates and planning tools.
  • Printable visual aids and storytelling prompts for EAL learners.
  • Risk assessment and accessibility checklists.
  • Seasonal activity guides and sustainability tips.
  • Muddy Puddle Teacher resource pack for SEND and EAL learners.

Certification

Participants who complete the course will receive:

  • A Certificate in SEND and EAL Outdoor Learning using the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach.
  • Access to exclusive resources for one year.
  • Book a Discovery Call