Classrooms across the state are taking advantage of outdoor learning opportunities.

With COVID preparedness ramping up at schools around Tasmania, a number of classes – where possible – are reporting the benefits of outdoor learning.

Port Sorell Primary School teacher and AEU Rep Gelisa Mearns said her class makes use of their school’s outdoor learning space “very often”.

Research shows learning in an outdoor environment encourages skills such as problem solving and negotiating risk which are important for child development.

AEU Organiser Michelle Rippon said it was pleasing to see students and staff enjoying new ways of learning.

“There is a great staff and leadership team working together at Port Sorell Primary,” she said.

“They feel very fortunate to have these modern facilities.”

Many schools and colleges are not so lucky, but AEU representatives have advocated strongly for Government investment in outdoor learning spaces, as well as improvements to indoor spaces.

While progress from State Government and DoE has been slower than promised, successful applications for outdoor learning space funding should be announced soon.

To see the latest AEU COVID news and resources, visit: https://aeutas.org.au/covid-19