Learning Beyond the Classroom: Outdoor Education in Porto

How can teachers create learning experiences that stay with students long after the lesson ends? One answer lies in stepping outside the classroom. Outdoor education encourages curiosity, teamwork, and hands-on discovery—values that make learning both meaningful and memorable. This approach took center stage in Porto, where educators from across Europe gathered to explore how teaching outdoors can inspire new ways of thinking and learning.
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The course “Outdoor education: a new way of teaching and learning” took place from 14 to 20 September 2025 in Porto, Portugal. The participants came from Italy, Sweden, and the Czech Republic, forming a dynamic and multicultural group: Veronica, Ivana, and Nicole from Consorzio Città Solidale (Italy); Christel from Vuxenutbildningen, Härryda kommun (Sweden); Ivana and Veronika from Gymnazium Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic); and Paola, Antonella, and Loredana from Istituto Comprensivo Luigi Angelini (Italy).

The week began with an introduction to the principles and pedagogy of outdoor education. Participants discussed what “learning outside” really means—how it goes beyond simply moving lessons outdoors and instead reshapes how teachers and students interact. Through collaborative discussions, they reflected on their current teaching practices and shared examples from their own schools, setting a strong foundation for the days ahead.

On Tuesday, the group took their first steps into the field at a local park. Here, they experimented with outdoor activities designed to spark creativity and teamwork. Simple materials and natural surroundings became the tools for exploration. The experience showed how easily outdoor learning can be adapted to different subjects and how nature itself can become a teaching resource.
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Wednesday brought a change of scenery—and perspective—as participants moved their classroom to the beach. Through cooperative challenges and sensory activities, they explored how different environments shape learning. The sea breeze and open space inspired discussions about student motivation, engagement, and the value of experiential learning.

Thursday introduced a blend of outdoor exploration and interactive challenges. Using a digital treasure hunt, participants followed clues, solved problems, and collaborated to complete tasks around the city. This activity demonstrated how digital tools can complement outdoor education, turning urban spaces into playgrounds for active learning without losing the essence of exploration and collaboration.

The final day focused on safety and planning, essential elements for any outdoor learning experience. Participants learned how to assess risks, plan logistics, and ensure inclusive participation. They reflected on the importance of preparation and adaptability, gaining practical strategies to integrate outdoor learning safely and effectively into their school contexts.

By the end of the week, the participants had not only deepened their understanding of outdoor education but also formed meaningful connections across borders. They left Porto with renewed enthusiasm, ready to bring more creativity, collaboration, and curiosity into their classrooms. The experience reminded everyone that learning can happen anywhere—and that sometimes, the best lessons begin under the open sky.
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Discover more about this course  here.