Holistic development through Bush School
Outdoor learning and self-directed play in nature is one of the most effective ways to support a child's holistic development.
Research shows that nature based learning and play foster a child's sense of wonder, ignites curiosity, and promotes active inquiry, collaboration, and environmental responsibility.
This approach is also supported by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which emphasises that play is essential to a child's development.
Through our Scotch Early Years philosophy we are committed to embracing the surrounding natural landscape as an integral part of our learning programme.
Bush School
Through our Bush School programme, we foster children's awareness of the interconnectedness of their world, inspire a sense of responsibility for its care and respect each child's right to grow and develop through play in nature.
If you've wandered around the Scotch playing fields, you may have come across our early years children happily collaborating in student-initiated play in our outdoor, purposely built and designed, Bush School space.
A natural playground for discovery
Here children have the freedom to explore, inquire, and interact with nature's elements, such as insects, weather, water, mud, logs, leaves, and trees.
These natural materials provide rich opportunities to develop skills and explore concepts across a wide range of disciplines including science, mathematics, technology, engineering and the arts.
The possibilities for learning are endless at Bush School, driven by the students' innate curiosity.
Supporting holistic development
While at Bush School, children engage in naturally challenging, and child directed physical activities that promote fine and gross motor coordination, strength, and stamina.
As they climb trees, create and fly kites, balance along logs, jump in puddles, explore movement along the water track, hunt for minibeasts, and build cubbies together, the children are developing physically as well as socially, cognitively and emotionally.
Research driven approach
Dr S. Denaene's neuroscience research, (based upon the four pillars of learning) supports the idea that active engagement enhances learning.
According to Dr Denaene, children learn best when they are actively involved in questioning, experimenting, and engaging with hands-on experiences.
Our Scotch Bush School provides the perfect environment for this type of active learning, nurturing curiosity and engagement.
Nature as the 'third teacher'
Taking children outdoors allows our youngest students to learn at their own pace.
Bush School sessions are designed to offer provocations that build on children's interests, enabling them to expand their understanding, skills, and curiosity over time.
The Bush School environment, acts as a "third teacher," providing engaging and authentic learning opportunities.
Additionally, the calming effects of nature help children regulate their emotions, build resilience, and develop social skills all under the watchful eye of our trained Nature School teacher Ms Anna Clancy.
A natural steward
Nature-based learning and play at Bush School naturally fosters meaningful interactions between children and their peers, educators, and the environment.
As children explore together, they collaborate, problem-solve, and strengthen emotional bonds.
They also develop an appreciation for the natural world, its animals, and a shared responsibility for the environment and community.
A global approach
Both the International Baccalaureate and Scotch's Early Years Philosophy, supported by current research, emphasise the importance of outdoor exploration, and play in learning.
Our outdoor Bush School space offers the ideal setting to enable our children to engage in hands-on, sensory-driven experiences that cultivate lifelong learners, provoke inquisitive minds and develop a deep connection to the natural world around them.
Experience our Bush School
Once a year, we host Bush School Saturday – an opportunity inviting the wider community, to experience the wonder of outdoor learning at our Early Learning Centre and Bush School facilities.
This special morning is designed to showcase the beauty and benefits of nature-based education, allowing children and their families to immerse themselves in hands-on activities.
Families have the opportunity to witness firsthand the ways in which nature supports early childhood development.
Our teachers guide activities, and share insights into our unique approach to learning through play and discovery in nature.
Whether families are current members of our school community or are visiting for the first time, this event provides a welcoming and enriching experience for all, reinforcing the vital role that nature plays in early education.
Wanting to hear more about Bush School Saturday events in the future? Click here to join the mailing list.
Ms Anna Clancy
Early Years Bush School Specialist
Ms Racquel Cummings
Early Learning Centre Coordinator
