By Amanda Hubball - Deputy Head and Curriculum Lead at Alfreton Nursery School


INsPiRiNg StEm LEaRnInG WiTh


OUtDoOr PLaY


In early years, some of the best learning happens outdoors. The natural world offers endless opportunities for children to question, investigate, experiment and solve problems through play, making it the perfect environment for early STEM learning.


Whether they are observing insects, building structures, collecting natural materials, or experiencing the weather, every outdoor experience supports STEM learning and helps children develop the confidence to explore, investigate and make sense of the world around them.


Why outdoor STEM matters


At Alfreton Nursery School, we’ve found that outdoor learning really brings STEM to life because children are extra curious and actively involved in discovering answers for themselves. They want to know why puddles disappear, where worms live, and how plants grow - it provides the perfect space for investigation because learning is rooted in real experiences.


When children engage in outdoor STEM activities, they also learn to ask questions, make predictions, test ideas and communicate their thinking. These experiences help to develop resilience, creativity and confidence, all of which are essential for future learning.


Exploring science through nature


Science is everywhere outdoors. Seasonal changes, wildlife and natural materials all provide opportunities for observation and investigations.


Simple activities like the following can be a great starting point for children to start practising scientific thinking, without requiring a large budget. You could try:


• Comparing the size, shape and texture of different leaves and insects.


• Creating nature challenges, such as finding four birch leaves, three sticks and two stones.


• Exploring how fruit and vegetables change as they decay.


• Setting up simple investigations linked to weather, water and nature.


• Adding nesting materials to homemade bug hotels and creating DIY insect water stations


The key is to provide activities that can help children notice patterns, make observations and begin naturally thinking like mini scientists.


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For more ideas and inspiration visit ypo.co.uk/littlelearners


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