Bringing Wilderness into the Classroom: Blending Outdoor Experiences with Academic Learning

The latest edition of the course "Outdoor Learning and Adventure Education" took place in Tenerife from 25/05/2025 to 31/05/2025. Educators from across Europe joined the training, including: Janka Kubánková and Tomáš Konečný from Základná škola sv.Andeja Svorada a Benedikta in Slovakia; Ivan Dubravica from Centar za odgoj i obrazovanje in Croatia; Nico Lorenz and Jette Fobe from Joliot-Curie-Gymnasium In Germany; Celine Favreliere and Frederique Perret D'angloz from Collège Maurice Bedel in France. 

The course began by introducing the concepts of Outdoor and Trekking Education. We explored different strategies to engage students in trekking experiences, emphasizing that ‘outdoor’ learning isn't limited to forests or mountains, urban environments can also serve as rich, educational landscapes. In fact, a key part of the course focused on Urban Trekking, where participants learned to teach core subjects like math, science, music, language, and art through interactive, location-based activities designed to boost students’ awareness and curiosity about their surroundings.

Later in the week, participants applied these strategies in nature-based environments, exploring local parks through hands-on games and exercises. These practical sessions were well-received, sparking creativity and collaboration as participants shared their favorite activities and even began designing their own.
On the third day, the group completed a scenic 9.4km hike through La Caldera, located about 40 minutes from Puerto de la Cruz. Along the way, they delved into the theory of Non-Formal Education (NFE)—an approach that emphasizes experiential learning where students gain knowledge through doing. When guided by thoughtful reflection, students can connect these experiences to real-life applications, deepening their understanding.

Wednesday was reserved for a visit to Mount Teide and its stunning national park. There, a hike around the iconic Roques de Garcia gave space for discussions on teamwork, classroom dynamics, and strategies to inspire students to engage with outdoor learning.

Thursday brought the most challenging adventure of the week: a 12.9km trek from Mirador Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo. This day combined physical activity with rich learning as participants reviewed outdoor teaching techniques, studied Kurt Hahn’s 10 educational principles, and took part in reflective activities. Each educator then began developing a lesson plan tailored to integrating trekking into their own curriculum.

The final stage of the course focused on designing customized trekking experiences suitable for each participant's student age group and curriculum goals. With Friday designated as a more relaxed beach day, participants first hiked for an hour through lush banana plantations before arriving at the black sands of Playa El Bollullo. There, they shared and received feedback on their trekking lesson plans, enjoying a vibrant exchange of ideas.
This week served as a powerful example of how learning through direct experience, especially in outdoor settings, can inspire educators and students alike. From nature trails to city streets, this course empowered participants with the tools to make trekking a meaningful part of the educational journey.