The Outdoor Continuous Provision Course is designed for educators who want to create seamless, engaging, and purposeful outdoor learning environments. Using the Muddy Puddle Teacher (MPT) approach, this course equips participants with the skills and knowledge to design outdoor continuous provision that supports child-led exploration, creativity, and curriculum-linked learning.
Course Costs
- £550.00 one-off payment. Enrol Now.
- Schools can pay by invoice.
- UK schools can use sports and pupil premium.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Course Goals
- Understand the principles and benefits of outdoor continuous provision.
- Create purposeful and flexible outdoor learning environments.
- Link outdoor provision to curriculum objectives using the MPT approach.
- Foster child-led exploration and independence.
- Learn to adapt provisions for seasonal and environmental changes.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Course Timeline
- 10 hours of learning: Flexible, self-paced format.
- 1-year access to course materials and resources.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Outdoor Continuous Provision
- Learning Objectives:
- Understand what outdoor continuous provision is and why it matters.
- Explore the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach to child-led, outdoor learning.
- Key Topics:
- Defining continuous provision in outdoor settings.
- Benefits for physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
- The role of the educator in outdoor provision.
- Practical Task:
- Reflect on your current outdoor space and identify areas for continuous provision improvement.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Module 2: Designing Purposeful Outdoor Spaces
- Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to create dynamic, engaging outdoor learning areas.
- Understand how to align provision with the curriculum.
- Key Topics:
- Setting up zones: Nature play, sensory exploration, creative arts, and STEM.
- Linking continuous provision to curriculum objectives (e.g., literacy, numeracy, science).
- Using natural and low-cost resources.
- Practical Task:
- Design a layout for an outdoor learning space that includes curriculum-linked zones.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Module 3: Seasonal and Environmental Adaptations
- Learning Objectives:
- Discover how to adapt continuous provision for different seasons and weather conditions.
- Embrace the changing environment as a teaching tool.
- Key Topics:
- Planning for seasonal activities (e.g., leaf exploration in autumn, mud play in spring).
- Safety and risk management in changing conditions.
- Incorporating natural elements like snow, rain, and wind into play.
- Practical Task:
- Create a seasonal activity plan for your outdoor provision space.
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Module 4: Encouraging Child-Led Learning
- Learning Objectives:
- Empower children to take ownership of their outdoor learning experiences.
- Learn techniques to support open-ended exploration.
- Key Topics:
- Balancing structure with free play.
- Fostering independence through choice and discovery.
- Observation and assessment strategies to track learning outcomes.
- Practical Task:
- Develop a child-led activity using the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Module 5: Sustainability and Natural Resource Use
- Learning Objectives:
- Incorporate sustainability into your outdoor continuous provision.
- Use natural and recycled materials to enhance learning.
- Key Topics:
- Eco-friendly outdoor teaching practices.
- Creating resources from natural or recycled items (e.g., mud kitchens, stick frames).
- Teaching children about environmental responsibility through play.
- Practical Task:
- Plan a zero-waste outdoor activity using only natural materials.
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Module 6: Evaluating and Evolving Outdoor Provision
- Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to monitor and improve outdoor continuous provision.
- Engage with feedback from children, staff, and parents.
- Key Topics:
- Observing children’s engagement to refine provision.
- Seeking feedback and incorporating suggestions.
- Keeping outdoor learning fresh and exciting.
- Practical Task:
- Draft an evaluation plan for your outdoor continuous provision setup.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Course Resources
- Outdoor provision planning templates.
- Seasonal activity guides and calendars.
- Risk assessment tools for outdoor settings.
- Muddy Puddle Teacher resource pack for continuous provision.
- Observation and assessment templates.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Conclusion
Participants who complete the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course will:
- Receive a certification in outdoor continuous provision.
- Gain confidence in designing and implementing effective outdoor spaces.
- Access a toolkit of resources to support long-term outdoor provision.
- Learn strategies to foster child-led learning and environmental stewardship.
Enrol in the Outdoor Continuous Provision Course
Ready to transform your outdoor space into a thriving hub of learning and discovery? Enrol now and unlock the potential of continuous provision with the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach!
The Importance of Great Outdoor Continuous Provision in Education
Outdoor continuous provision is a cornerstone of modern, child-led learning environments. It offers children the freedom to explore, discover, and engage with the natural world while building critical life skills. Using the Muddy Puddle Teacher (MPT) approach, outdoor continuous provision transforms outdoor spaces into purposeful, enriching learning hubs that align with curriculum goals.
In this blog, we’ll explore why great outdoor continuous provision matters and how it benefits children’s development, supported by real-world insights and resources.
1. Encourages Child-Led Learning
Outdoor continuous provision empowers children to take charge of their learning. Providing open-ended resources and activities allows children to explore their interests, fostering autonomy and intrinsic motivation (Outdoor Classroom Day).
When children have the agency to choose how and what they explore, they become active participants in their education.
2. Builds Resilience and Independence
Unstructured play in outdoor environments helps children develop problem-solving skills and resilience. Great continuous provision teaches children to embrace challenges, whether constructing shelters or navigating uneven terrain (Learning Through Landscapes).
These skills are essential for fostering independence and confidence in school and beyond.
3. Enhances Physical Development
Outdoor continuous provision naturally incorporates physical activity. From balancing on logs to digging in mud, children develop gross and fine motor skills that are crucial for their growth (World Health Organization).
Outdoor learning spaces provide the perfect setting for movement-rich activities contributing to overall health and well-being.
4. Sparks Creativity and Curiosity
Natural environments inspire imaginative play and creative thinking. Great continuous provision includes a variety of zones and resources that encourage open-ended exploration, from mud kitchens to sensory gardens (Creative STAR Learning).
This creativity is enjoyable and lays the groundwork for innovative thinking and problem-solving.
5. Strengthens Emotional Well-Being
Nature has a calming effect on children, reducing stress and promoting emotional regulation. Continuous provision incorporating mindfulness activities, like sensory walks or nature journaling, helps children develop emotional resilience (Children and Nature Network).
These benefits are especially important in today’s fast-paced, tech-heavy world.
6. Promotes Social Skills and Teamwork
Outdoor spaces encourage collaboration and communication. Great continuous provision creates opportunities for children to work together, whether building structures or role-playing scenarios (National Trust).
These interactions help children learn to share, negotiate, and cooperate—key social skills for future success.
7. Supports Curriculum Objectives
One of the greatest strengths of outdoor continuous provision is its ability to align with educational goals. Activities can seamlessly integrate literacy, numeracy, and science into outdoor play, enhancing academic learning (Gov.uk Education Guidance).
For example, children might practice counting with natural objects or explore physics by rolling objects down different slopes.
8. Encourages Environmental Awareness
By spending time outdoors, children naturally develop a connection to the environment. Continuous provision can include sustainability-focused activities, such as planting gardens or creating bug hotels, to teach children about caring for the planet (WWF UK Education Resources).
These experiences foster a lifelong sense of environmental responsibility.
9. Supports Inclusive Education
Outdoor continuous provision can be tailored to meet the needs of all children, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. Nature-based settings often remove barriers that exist in traditional classrooms, creating more opportunities for success (Forest School Association).
Every child can thrive in an outdoor learning environment with the right design.
10. Fosters a Love for Learning
Ultimately, great outdoor continuous provision ignites a passion for learning. When children are immersed in nature, they become naturally curious, inquisitive, and eager to explore (Edutopia).
This love for learning extends beyond the classroom, shaping how children approach challenges and opportunities.
Conclusion
Investing in great outdoor continuous provision is a commitment to the holistic development of children. It supports their physical, emotional, social, and academic growth while nurturing a connection to the environment. The Muddy Puddle Teacher approach makes it easy to create purposeful, engaging outdoor spaces that benefit every child.
Ready to transform your outdoor learning environment? Explore resources and tips at the Muddy Puddle Teacher website and create impactful outdoor continuous provision today!
