Breaking into the Playground

In this episode, Carol Murdoch and Cara De Mello discuss the importance of open conversations about periods, inclusivity in outdoor education, and practical solutions for managing menstruation outdoors. They highlight how addressing these topics can create safer, more inclusive outdoor learning environments for everyone. keywords outdoor education, periods, menstruation, inclusivity, outdoor learn...

In this conversation, Carol Murdoch speaks with Dr. Gemma Goldenberg about the significance of outdoor learning in education, particularly in urban settings. They discuss the benefits of outdoor learning for children's development, the challenges teachers face in implementing it, and the importance of play in fostering creativity and self-regulation. Gemma shares her research findings, personal an...

This conversation delves into the rich tapestry of Scottish culture, exploring the impact of the Outlander series on tourism, the importance of working-class narratives, and the growing disconnect between modern society and nature. Carol and Scott Richardson Read discuss the therapeutic benefits of nature, the significance of folklore and cultural heritage, and the need for more flexible celebrati...

In this conversation, Carol Murdoch and Donna Strachan explore the multifaceted roles in education, emphasizing the importance of outdoor learning, the challenges of ADHD and dyslexia, and the need for sustainability in educational practices. They discuss the significance of vulnerability in teaching, the impact of nature connection on childhood experiences, and the necessity of learner-led educat...

This conversation explores the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion in education, emphasizing the need for respect, understanding, and support for diverse identities. G Sabini-Roberts shares personal experiences and insights on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, the role of educators in creating safe spaces, and the significance of community support. The discussion highlights innovative approaches to...

In this engaging conversation, Carol Murdoch and Joy Dunlop explore the significance of outdoor learning and the Gaelic language in Scotland. They discuss the power of community, the joy of singing in choirs, and the accessibility of Gaelic resources for educators. Joy shares her journey into weather presenting and highlights the poetic nature of the Gaelic language. The conversation emphasizes th...

In this conversation, Carol Murdoch and Patrick Boxall explore the significance of outdoor learning, its impact on creativity, mental health, and community engagement. Patrick shares his journey in outdoor education, the role of Queen Margaret University in promoting outdoor learning, and the importance of connecting communities to share best practices. They discuss the Outdoor Learning Hub and it...

In this conversation, Eilidh Malcolm from OWL Scotland discusses her extensive background in outdoor learning and the importance of connecting children with nature. She highlights the role of OWL groups across Scotland in providing resources, training, and community support for educators. The conversation also covers various awards, such as the Scottish Junior Forester Award and Scotland's Finest...

In this episode of the Breaking Into the Playground podcast, host Carol Murdoch explores the enchanting world of outdoor storytelling. She discusses how nature enhances storytelling, making it immersive and engaging. Through the tale of the Green Man, she illustrates the transformative power of stories in connecting children with the natural world. Carol shares practical techniques for effective o...

In this podcast, Carol Murdoch interviews Paul Kendall from Wild Things, an environmental education charity in Scotland. They discuss Paul's journey into environmental education, the work Wild Things does with various age groups, and the importance of outdoor learning. The conversation highlights the differences between Forest School and Wild Things' approach, the significance of risk assessment,...

This conversation explores the significance of outdoor learning in Scotland, discussing its benefits for children, staff, and families. It addresses barriers to access, the importance of engaging parents, and the need for training and resources. The speakers share personal experiences and emphasize the necessity of mindset shifts to promote outdoor learning effectively. They also highlight the imp...

In this episode of the Breaking Into the Playground podcast, host Carol Murdoch speaks with Dawn from Mucky Boots about the importance of outdoor learning and its impact on mental health. Dawn shares her journey into outdoor education, the core values of Mucky Boots, and the need for systemic change in education to support children's development. They discuss the challenges faced by educators, the...

As the academic year comes to an end, it's time to start thinking about how to support outdoor learning in the next academic year. Outdoor learning has numerous benefits for both students and teachers, including improved mental health and well-being. Integrating outdoor learning into the everyday curriculum is a great way to incorporate it into the school year. Even if a school has limited outdoor...

In this conversation, Carol interviews Calum Wright, an outdoor learning specialist, about his journey into education and his experiences teaching outdoor learning in different countries. They discuss the importance of making outdoor learning relevant to the curriculum, the value of simplicity in outdoor learning activities, and the need for teachers to be adaptable and reflective. They also explo...

Elaine Milne, head teacher at New Elgin Primary School, shares their journey in outdoor learning, highlighting significant progress despite initial vandalism challenges. The school gradually expanded outdoor activities to formal lessons, investing in playground markings, reading huts, and sensory areas, leading to increased student enthusiasm, engagement, and well-being. Support from the local com...

Ian Menzies from Education Scotland discusses his journey in education and his passion for outdoor learning. He highlights the importance of preparing children for engagement with the world and the role of Education Scotland in supporting teachers and learners. He also discusses the Scottish Government Strategic Working Group for Outdoor Learning and the Learning for Sustainability Action Plan. Pr...

Summary Cameron discusses his journey with Stramash, an outdoor nursery in Scotland, highlighting the lows, like the devastating storm and fire the experience to the highs and benefits of outdoor learning and the people he works with. He emphasizes the importance of independence and relationships, provides tips for managing outdoor challenges, and discusses the future of outdoor education in Scotl...

Judy Duncan, a teacher with a passion for outdoor learning, shares her journey and experiences. She discovered the benefits of outdoor learning when she took her primary six class outside for short periods every day, which greatly improved their concentration and behavior. Judy emphasizes the importance of making connections with the real world through outdoor learning and believes that children s...

In this podcast episode, we delve into the importance of getting primary 7 students outdoors during the summer term, highlighting the challenges of finding time for outdoor activities and the myriad benefits of outdoor learning in reducing stress and anxiety while fostering holistic development. We discuss various activities like nature scavenger hunts and sensory exploration, emphasizing the role...

Juliet Robertson, an education consultant specializing in learning and play outdoors, shares her journey with acute myeloid leukemia and the importance of open conversations about death. She emphasizes the need for teachers to slow down and take care of their mental health. Juliet provides several tips for educators, including focusing on values, minimizing planning time, teaching outside more, an...

In this conversation, Carol discusses her experience with hay fever and shares her top tips for managing it while working outdoors. In the second part of the conversation, Carol recommends the book 'Wild Woman' by Philippa Forrester, which shares empowering stories of women who work in nature. She reflects on her own journey as an outdoor practitioner and emphasizes that anyone can enjoy and teach...

In this episode, Carol is joined by Lindsay Shepherd, a teacher in Aberdeen City. Lindsay shares her journey and experiences in outdoor education. She discusses her time with Tinkergarten in the US and how it inspired her to bring outdoor learning to Scotland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Carol discusses place responsive education and the use of technology in outdoor learning. She also shares insights from a study by Gemma Goldenberg on the benefits of outdoor learning. Carol answers questions about providing outdoor learning with limited resources, managing outdoor learning with minimal staff, and the curriculum coverage of outdoor learning. Hosted on Acast. See a...

Join Carol Murdoch on an enlightening journey into outdoor learning and personal growth in this captivating podcast episode. Drawing from Plato's Allegory of the Cave and Carl Rogers' theories, Carol explores the challenges and rewards of outdoor education. Discover practical techniques for building confidence and embracing outdoor adventures. Tune in and step outside your comfort zone to unlock n...

Step into the realm of outdoor education with Carol Murdoch as she unpacks the intricacies of playground learning in this captivating podcast episode. Explore the contrasting landscapes of woodland, concrete, and open plan classrooms, as Carol delves into their respective advantages and challenges. From the tranquility of nature to the urban hustle, discover how these environments impact focus, re...