Activities outside the classroom to benefit all

Schools, local authorities, youth groups, parents and others should work together to provide children with learning experiences outside the classroom, according to the latest government proposals.

The draft Manifesto for Education Outside the Classroom, out for consultation until 30 January 2006, aims to provide all children and young people with a variety of opportunities to learn away from their desk.

“Whether it can be exploring the school grounds, going on a local field trip, visiting a museum or trekking the Himalayas, the world beyond the classroom can stimulate, motivate and bring learning to life,” it states.

“We believe that all children and young people should be able to experience these opportunities at school, after school and during their free time and holidays.”

The manifesto argues that high quality education outside the classroom can help foster independence, aid social development and often motivate reluctant learners. As a result, it predicts that ensuring all children have access to such opportunities will help deliver at least three of the five Every Child Matters outcomes on being health, enjoying and achieving, and making a positive contribution.

The manifesto’s vision will also tie in closely with the extended schools agenda and the plans in the youth green paper to radically re-shape services for young people.