Beach Schools

We learn using the beach at Lochdon bay as part of our beach schools.  The pupils soon realised that 2m or so from the grassy knoll the sand/mud became quite ‘sucky’.  Through discussion they found that the further out they went towards the sea the more unstable the sand became.  They then discovered that the sand closer to the grass had small stones within the sandy composition which gave better stability.  This provided the pupils with an understanding of risk assessment, of setting appropriate boundaries for their beach school as well as providing life skills when living near a shore line.  We problem solved what to do it you did get stuck – throw your weight towards the more stable ground, ending on all fours, dispersing your weight.As teachers we would like to put forward our thoughts towards impact and benefits –

  • We believe that working in our local environment provides the pupils with realistic context for taking responsibility both for their own and others’ safety.
  • The pupils are involved in all aspects of planning, gathering equipment, carrying equipment and developing their leadership skills.
  • You see a different side to pupils – often problem solving skills become far more evident in the outdoors due to the realistic contexts of the problems the pupils face.
  • The pupils enjoy working and learning outdoors, it motivates and excites them, making learning fun.  Outdoor learning provides a certain freedom, allows for exploration, creativity and imagination.
  • Curiosity is a natural skills which is being developed and the raised  level of higher order questioning form the pupils is marked.
  • The pupils are developing a real respect for their environment, understanding the big issues which affect the natural environment, developing custodians for the future of our communities.
  • As well as Beach School we also practise the Mile a Day challenge.  This high level of activity produces a range of benefits including mental wellbeing, higher concentration levels, better communication and social skills including co-operation, greater stamina and resilience and improved balance and co-ordination.