Outdoor Learning INSET Training Days
Build your team’s confidence with practical outdoor learning training created by teachers for real schools and settings. Our INSET days and workshops show staff how to take the subjects they already teach outside using simple, sustainable resources and the outdoor space they already have.
Choose a full training day, a focused half-day workshop or a tailored programme for Early Years, primary, SEND or whole-school development. Staff leave with practical ideas, clear next steps and activities they can use with children straight away.
Why Choose The Muddy Puddle Teacher® for Your INSET Training Day?
The Muddy Puddle Teacher® delivers practical INSET training designed for real schools and nurseries. Our teacher podcast is a great way to listen to some of our success stories and inspiring ways our schools go above and beyond to create nurturing curriculums via our outdoor learning training. Listen in to Booth Royd Primary in Leeds. Our approach has been created by teachers, so every session is focused on what staff can realistically use in their own setting. We show teams how to take the subjects and areas of learning they already teach and deliver them outdoors using clear objectives, simple methods and the space they already have.
You do not need a forest, specialist grounds or expensive equipment. Our training uses a small, sustainable toolkit including bamboo, rope, chalk, hoops, clay, natural materials and loose parts. Staff take part in practical activities during the day, helping them understand how the methods work and giving them ideas they can use immediately with children. Learn how Landywood Primary in Cheshire used Outdoor Learning to engage their learners with this blog post. Landywood Primary : An inclusive Classroom for All.
Training can be tailored for Early Years, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, SEND or whole-school development. We can focus on curriculum teaching, outdoor play, communication and language, maths, English, wellbeing, behaviour, staff confidence or creating a consistent outdoor learning approach across your setting. The aim is not to deliver a one-off inspirational day, but to help your team build confidence, reduce reliance on worksheets and create lasting, meaningful change.
Training Created by Sarah Seaman and Delivered by Qualified Teachers
Sarah Seaman is a qualified teacher, educational consultant, author and founder of The Muddy Puddle Teacher®. With a BSc, PGCE and MA, Sarah combines professional expertise with real classroom experience, helping schools and nurseries make outdoor learning practical, purposeful and achievable. Her work has supported educators across Early Years, primary education and SEND settings to build confidence and create richer learning experiences outside.
Sarah created The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach after recognising that many teachers wanted to use outdoor learning but felt unsure about curriculum coverage, behaviour, resources, safety and planning. Her training removes those barriers by showing staff how to take the subjects they already teach and deliver them outdoors using simple, sustainable methods involving bamboo, rope, chalk, hoops and natural materials.
Training is delivered by qualified teachers with current or recent classroom experience. This means your trainer understands the everyday realities of managing pupils, meeting curriculum expectations, supporting SEND, working with limited budgets and making the most of the outdoor space available.
Every trainer follows The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach, using the same trusted methods, sustainable toolkit and practical activities. Whether your session is delivered by Sarah or another member of the training team, staff receive consistent, high-quality guidance from an experienced educator who understands how outdoor learning works in real settings.
How Can Outdoor Learning Training Help?
Our outdoor learning training helps teachers and practitioners feel more confident about taking learning beyond the classroom. We show you how to teach the subjects and areas of learning you already deliver outdoors, using clear objectives, practical methods and the space available in your school, nursery or setting.
Staff learn how to use simple, sustainable resources such as bamboo, rope, chalk, hoops and natural materials across Early Years, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2 and SEND provision. Training can support outdoor play, curriculum teaching, communication and language, physical development, wellbeing, behaviour, teamwork and children’s engagement.
Whether you choose an online course, attend an in-person event or book an INSET training day, our aim is to give you ideas you can use straight away. You do not need a forest, expensive equipment or a complete redesign of your outdoor area—just practical guidance and the confidence to begin. Explore more of the differences between outdoor learning and forest school with this article.
What Does An Outdoor Learning INSET Training Day Look Like?
Our INSET training days combine professional discussion, evidence-based guidance and plenty of practical outdoor learning. We begin by welcoming your team, exploring the aims for the day and looking at why outdoor learning matters, including the benefits for engagement, wellbeing, behaviour and curriculum development. We also discuss common barriers and show staff how outdoor learning can work in the space and with the resources they already have.
The main part of the day is practical. Staff take part in outdoor English and maths activities during the morning, followed by Early Years outdoor play and curriculum-linked ideas for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Every activity is designed to be realistic, sustainable and easy to use, giving staff methods they can adapt and try with children straight away.
The afternoon also includes SEND support, action planning and time to consider how outdoor learning can become part of everyday practice across your school or nursery. We finish with questions, next steps, useful resources and certificates for your team. Breaks and lunch are included within the timetable, creating a balanced day that is active, supportive and focused on lasting change rather than a one-off collection of ideas.
Outdoor Learning INSET Day Training Options
Every school and nursery is at a different stage of its outdoor learning journey, so we offer three levels of support. Choose a practical INSET day to inspire your team, add a one-year staff subscription for continued access to courses and resources, or select our mentorship package for ongoing guidance, reflection and follow-up support. Read a case study to learn about a school that used our training to help bring learning to life for their children. Our Lady’s Catholic School Dartford : Using the outdoors to support SEND learners.
Each package is designed to build staff confidence, provide ideas that can be used straight away and help outdoor learning become part of everyday practice rather than a one-off training experience.
What Does an Outdoor Learning Workshop Look Like?
Our half-day outdoor learning workshop gives your team a focused introduction to the benefits of teaching outside, alongside practical activities they can begin using straight away. We start by welcoming staff, setting the aims for the session and exploring how outdoor learning can support engagement, wellbeing, behaviour and curriculum development. We also discuss the common barriers schools and nurseries face and show how they can be overcome without needing a forest, a large budget or specialist equipment.
The practical session forms the heart of the workshop. Staff take part in curriculum-linked outdoor activities using simple, reusable resources such as rope, bamboo, chalk, hoops and natural materials. The ideas are designed to work in school fields, playgrounds, yards and nursery gardens, helping staff see how the space they already have can be used more effectively. Explore this artice for inspiration: Ways to Improve Outdoor Spaces.
We finish with planning, next steps and time for questions, so your team leaves with a clear idea of how to put the training into practice. Staff also receive useful resources and certificates, making the workshop a valuable and achievable way to build confidence, introduce outdoor learning or refresh your setting’s current approach.
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Outdoor Learning Workshop Options
Every school and nursery is at a different stage of its outdoor learning journey, so we offer three levels of support. Choose a practical Workshop day to inspire your team on a specific subject such as Maths, English, Geography or for Early Years: Outdoor Play, Outdoor Focus teaching and outdoor continuous provision. Alternatively, for 2-hour workshops, combine several subject areas.
Each package is designed to build staff confidence, provide ideas that can be used straight away and help outdoor learning become part of everyday practice rather than a one-off training experience.
Can All Staff Particpate In The Outdoor Learning Training?
Yes. Our outdoor learning training is designed to include the whole team, not only qualified teachers or staff who already feel confident outside. Teachers, teaching assistants, nursery practitioners, SEND staff, lunchtime supervisors, leaders and support staff can all take part and contribute their own experience.
Activities are practical, adaptable and suitable for different roles, ages and levels of confidence. Staff can participate at a pace that feels comfortable, and we make reasonable adjustments where needed so that physical ability, mobility, sensory needs or previous outdoor experience do not become barriers.
Whole-team participation helps create a consistent approach across your school or nursery. When everyone understands the methods, language and purpose behind outdoor learning, staff are better able to support one another and give children meaningful outdoor experiences throughout the day.
Can We Tailor The Outdoor Training Day?
Yes. Every school, nursery and setting is different, so your training day can be shaped around the needs of your staff and children. Before the session, we will discuss your priorities, current confidence levels, outdoor space and the outcomes you would like the training to achieve.
Your session could focus on Early Years outdoor play, curriculum teaching, maths, English, phonics, SEND, communication and language, wellbeing, behaviour, staff confidence or developing a consistent whole-setting approach. We can also adapt the balance between professional discussion, practical activities and action planning.
Whether you need a full INSET day, a half-day workshop or support for a particular team, we will make the training relevant, realistic and useful. The aim is for staff to leave with practical methods they can use in your setting—not generic ideas that do not fit your space, pupils or priorities.
Can All Staff Participate in the Outdoor Learning Training?
Yes. Our outdoor learning training is designed to include the whole team, not only qualified teachers or staff who already feel confident outside. Teachers, teaching assistants, nursery practitioners, SEND staff, lunchtime supervisors, leaders and support staff can all take part and contribute their own experience.
Activities are practical, adaptable and suitable for different roles, ages and levels of confidence. Staff can participate at a pace that feels comfortable, and we make reasonable adjustments where needed so that physical ability, mobility, sensory needs or previous outdoor experience do not become barriers.
Whole-team participation helps create a consistent approach across your school or nursery. When everyone understands the methods, language and purpose behind outdoor learning, staff are better able to support one another and give children meaningful outdoor experiences throughout the day.
We can train up to 60 trainees in one INSET day, or Worshop booked with us. Settings can come together and academies, to help reduce costs. Sports and pupil premium can be used.
How do I book Outdoor Learning INSET Days or Workshops?
Booking your training is simple. Contact The Muddy Puddle Teacher® team with a little information about your school, nursery or setting, including your preferred date, staff numbers, age range and the areas you would like the training to focus on.
We will discuss your needs, recommend the most suitable package and confirm what can be included in your session. Your training can be tailored around Early Years, primary curriculum learning, SEND, outdoor play, staff confidence or whole-setting development.
Once the date and package are agreed, we will confirm the booking and help you prepare for the day. You can choose a full INSET day, a half-day workshop or a longer-term package with website access and follow-up support.
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What Do Schools and Practitioners Value Most About Our Training?
Schools and practitioners often tell us that they value how practical, realistic and easy to apply our training feels. Staff do not leave with complicated plans or activities that require expensive equipment. Instead, they gain simple methods, reusable ideas and the confidence to begin using outdoor learning straight away. Read our glowing 5 star Trustpilot Reviews.
Teams particularly appreciate that the training is created by teachers who understand the pressures of real classrooms and settings. The activities can be adapted for Early Years, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, SEND and alternative provision, and they work in playgrounds, yards and school fields—not only in woodland spaces.
The feedback we receive most often highlights:
- Practical ideas staff can use immediately.
- A warm, friendly and down-to-earth training style.
- Simple resources that can be reused across the curriculum.
- Training tailored to the needs of the setting.
- Greater staff confidence about teaching outdoors.
- Inclusive approaches that support different learners.
- A clear focus on curriculum learning, not just outdoor activities.
- Support that feels achievable rather than overwhelming.
Outdoor Learning INSET Training – FAQ’s
Is the training suitable for Early Years teams?
Yes. We can tailor the training specifically for nursery, preschool, Reception or wider Early Years teams. Sessions can focus on outdoor play, communication and language, physical development, PSED, early maths, literacy, sensory experiences and creating purposeful continuous provision.
The training is practical and play-based, helping staff understand how to support child-led exploration while also recognising and extending the learning taking place outdoors.
We are a specialist school. Can the training be adapted for us?
Yes. We work with specialist settings and can adapt the content around the needs of your pupils and staff.
Training may focus on sensory regulation, communication, engagement, movement, emotional wellbeing, accessible outdoor activities and adapting learning for individual needs. Before the session, we will discuss your pupils, setting and priorities so the training feels relevant and achievable.
Is the training suitable for alternative provision?
Yes. Outdoor learning can be particularly valuable within alternative provision because it offers practical ways to support engagement, relationships, regulation, confidence and success.
We can tailor the day around your learners, staffing structure and setting. Activities can be adapted to suit different ages, needs, attention levels and previous experiences of education.
Do we have to book training for the whole school?
No. You can book training for a particular team, phase or department.
For example, the session could be delivered only for:
- Your Early Years team.
- Key Stage 1 staff.
- Key Stage 2 staff.
- Teaching assistants.
- Your SEND team.
- Subject leaders.
- A smaller group of outdoor-learning champions.
This can be a helpful way to begin before introducing outdoor learning more widely across the setting.
Can the training focus on one Key Stage?
Yes. We can create a session specifically for Early Years, Key Stage 1 or Key Stage 2.
The activities, examples and curriculum links will be matched to the age group you work with. Key Stage 1 training may focus on phonics, early maths, vocabulary and active learning, while Key Stage 2 sessions can include scientific enquiry, geography, English, problem solving, teamwork and independence.
Can we focus on just one subject?
Yes. You do not need to cover the whole curriculum in one session.
Your training could focus on outdoor maths, English, phonics, science, geography, wellbeing or another agreed priority. Beginning with one subject can help staff build confidence before expanding outdoor learning across the curriculum.
Can nursery staff and school staff train together?
Yes. We can plan a session that includes both Early Years and primary staff.
Some parts of the training can explore shared principles, such as active learning, communication, sustainable resources and inclusion. Practical activities can then be adapted to demonstrate how the same method can work differently across age groups.
Can teaching assistants and support staff take part?
Yes. Teachers, teaching assistants, nursery practitioners, SENCOs, learning-support staff, lunchtime supervisors, leaders and other relevant team members can participate.
Whole-team involvement can help everyone use the same approaches and language when supporting children outside. The page currently identifies EYFS, KS1 and KS2 teachers, teaching assistants, SENCOs, subject leads and senior leaders as suitable participants.
Do staff need previous outdoor-learning experience?
No. The training is suitable for complete beginners as well as staff who already take some learning outside.
We begin with the foundations, address common concerns and gradually introduce practical methods. More experienced teams can use the session to refresh their provision, develop curriculum links or create a more consistent whole-setting approach.
Do we need a forest or large outdoor area?
No. The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach can be used on playgrounds, yards, fields, nursery gardens, courtyards and other school spaces.
We focus on making the most of the environment you already have. Many activities use simple items such as chalk, rope, bamboo, hoops, cones and natural or reusable materials.
What happens if our outdoor space is mostly concrete?
That is not a problem. Concrete playgrounds and yards can be excellent spaces for large-scale maths, phonics, timelines, mapping, storytelling, sorting, measuring and collaborative activities.
We can tailor the practical training to reflect the type of space your staff will actually use.
Is the training suitable for children with SEND?
Yes. SEND can be included throughout your training or made the main focus of the session.
We can explore practical adaptations for communication, sensory differences, mobility, emotional regulation, anxiety, attention and engagement. Outdoor learning INSET training can support staff confidence in creating movement-friendly and sensory-aware experiences.
Can you support pupils who use alternative communication?
Yes. We can discuss the use of visual timetables, communication boards, symbols, objects of reference, signing, choice-making and predictable outdoor routines.
The exact approaches included will depend on the needs of your learners and the communication systems already used in your setting.
Can the training support behaviour and emotional regulation?
Yes. Outdoor learning can provide purposeful movement, practical tasks, additional space and opportunities for children to regulate before returning to classroom learning.
Training can include routines, expectations, transitions, calm spaces, movement breaks and ways to adapt activities for children who find busy or highly structured learning difficult.
What if some staff are not physically confident?
Staff can participate at a level that feels comfortable. The training does not require high levels of fitness or adventurous activity.
We can make reasonable adaptations for mobility, health, sensory or access needs. Staff can also learn through observing, discussing, planning and taking part in less physically demanding roles.
Can senior leaders attend?
Yes. We encourage senior leaders to participate where possible.
Leadership involvement can help outdoor learning connect with curriculum development, SEND, behaviour, wellbeing and school-improvement priorities. It also supports more realistic planning around time, resources and next steps.
Can the day be tailored to our school priorities?
Yes. Before the training, we will discuss your setting, staff confidence, pupils, outdoor space and desired outcomes.
The day can focus on areas such as:
- Early Years outdoor play.
- SEND and sensory regulation.
- Outdoor maths or English.
- Phonics.
- Curriculum development.
- Behaviour and wellbeing.
- Staff confidence.
- Sustainable resources.
- Whole-school planning.
Do you offer half-day workshops?
Yes. You can choose a full INSET day or a more focused half-day workshop.
A half-day workshop usually includes an introduction to the benefits of outdoor learning, practical curriculum-linked activities, planning time and clear next steps. The broader INSET format can also be delivered in different time arrangements, including half-day, full-day or shorter staff-development sessions.
Will staff receive practical activities to use afterwards?
Yes. Practical participation is at the heart of the training.
Staff will experience methods they can adapt for their own pupils and curriculum. The emphasis is on reusable approaches rather than isolated activities that can only be delivered once.
Are certificates included?
Yes. Staff can receive certificates to recognise their participation and professional development.
Relevant resources and next-step guidance can also be shared as part of the agreed package.
Can we add website access for staff?
Yes. One of our packages combines the INSET training day with a one-year staff subscription to The Muddy Puddle Teacher® website.
This allows your team to continue accessing relevant courses, resources and inspiration after the face-to-face training has finished.
Do you offer follow-up support?
Yes. Our mentorship package includes the initial INSET training, staff website access and four further online follow-up staff meetings.
These meetings can be used to reflect on progress, address barriers, develop planning and help outdoor learning become embedded rather than remaining a one-off initiative.
How many staff can attend?
We can discuss the size and structure of your team before confirming the booking.
The training can be delivered for a small phase team, a nursery team, a specialist group or a larger whole-school staff. Knowing the approximate number in advance helps us plan the most effective balance of discussion and practical participation.
What happens if the weather is poor?
Outdoor learning training is designed to reflect real practice, so light rain or cooler weather does not automatically stop the session.
We will agree a suitable plan with you and can adapt the day using sheltered outdoor areas and indoor discussion where necessary. Staff should be advised to bring practical clothing and footwear suitable for the forecast.
Do we need to provide equipment?
We will confirm any practical requirements before the training day.
Our approach uses simple and accessible resources, and we can usually work with a combination of equipment brought by the trainer and items already available in your setting.
How far do you travel?
The Muddy Puddle Teacher® can deliver training for schools, nurseries and organisations in different locations. Travel arrangements and any associated costs will be discussed clearly before your booking is confirmed.
How do we book?
Contact The Muddy Puddle Teacher® team with your preferred dates, location, approximate staff numbers, age range and training priorities.
We will then discuss the most suitable format and package for your setting before confirming the arrangements.
Other Ways of Training with Us
Choose the training format that works best for you and your team. Learn flexibly through our online outdoor learning courses, book practical INSET training for your school or setting, or join us at one of our live events. Our events include interactive webinars, hands-on workshops and outdoor learning festivals where educators can learn, connect and discover practical ideas to take back to their children.
