Outdoor Learning Coordinator Training: Pathways for EYFS, KS1, KS2 — or Whole School Options
Using The Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach
Online Course – Half-Termly Modules + 1:1 Mentor Support
This online course empowers early years practitioners to become confident Outdoor Learning Coordinators, embedding The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach across your setting. Delivered over half-termly modules, it offers a balance of flexible online learning and personalised support with our teacher mentors.
Course Structure – Half-Termly Modules
Module 1: Foundations of Outdoor Learning
Introduction to The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach
Benefits of outdoor learning
Overcoming barriers (weather, space, staffing)
Health & safety essentials and risk-benefit assessments
📅 Mentor Session: Review your setting’s starting point and create an action plan for developing your outdoor provision.
Module 2: Outdoor Learning in Practice
Planning daily outdoor sessions that link to your Curriculum
Setting up outdoor spaces for curiosity & creativity
Developing routines that encourage independence
Simple, low-prep activities for every season
📅 Mentor Session: Reflect on your first outdoor changes, troubleshoot challenges, and get personalised activity ideas.
Module 3: Extending Learning Outdoors
Linking outdoor play/learning to literacy, maths, and topic work
Using natural materials for problem-solving and exploration
Supporting language development & social skills outside
Encouraging child-led exploration and sustained shared thinking
📅 Mentor Session: Review children’s progress and explore strategies to stretch learning further.
Module 4: Inclusive Practice & Family Engagement
Adapting outdoor learning for children with SEND
Strategies for sensory regulation and supporting different learning styles
Engaging parents and carers in outdoor learning
Planning inclusive events and community projects
📅 Mentor Session: Debrief on inclusion strategies and plan next steps for long-term impact.
Module 5: Leading Your Team
Becoming a confident Outdoor Learning Coordinator
Supporting colleagues and sharing best practice
Building outdoor learning into staff meetings and CPD
Using evidence and observation to showcase impact
- Feeding back to SLT & Governors
📅 Mentor Session: Develop a whole-setting outdoor learning plan and gain advice on leading change with confidence.
Module 6: Review & Celebrate
Evaluating your outdoor learning journey
Measuring impact on children’s development
Embedding outdoor learning in policies and planning
Celebrating success and planning future growth
📅 Final Mentor Session: One-to-one review with your mentor to reflect, celebrate, and plan sustainability.
🎯 What You’ll Gain
Confidence & Clarity: Step-by-step approach to leading outdoor learning in your setting.
Practical Skills: Easy-to-implement activities and planning tools for every term.
Ongoing Support: Half-termly mentor calls with a qualified teacher to answer questions and guide you.
Community & Resources: Access to The Muddy Puddle Teacher® online library with hundreds of activities, templates, and ideas.