Lambeth nature scheme to be offered nationwide

The Natural Thinkers programme has been developed by Lambeth Council and the Lambeth Early Action Partnership (LEAP). It started as a programme for very young children in Lambeth, but it has proved so successful it is now being offered across the country for children 0-11.

With the pandemic encouraging a growing awareness of the benefits of accessing nature and the enjoyment that comes with being outdoors, Natural Thinkers is the perfect tool for educators of all age groups. Natural Thinkers provides staff with a framework to develop ways for children to access the outdoors, and bring all aspects of the curriculum outside with accessible activities.  Schools who have taken on the programme often report how children become calmer, more motivated to join in, gain confidence and are inspired to talk about what they are doing while raising achievement.  

So far Natural Thinkers has trained over 300 practitioners in 100 early years settings and primary schools to deliver high-quality outdoor learning.

Abrilli Phillip, Director of Education and Learning at Lambeth Council joined colleagues for the session and said: “I’m so proud of our Lambeth teams for pioneering this unique approach and constantly pushing for the very best for our children. They’ve shown what can be done by thinking and acting creatively and I’m really excited to start sharing their success more widely, to help more children grow and thrive.”

LEAP’s Director, Laura McFarlane, said: “Our Lambeth teams are at the forefront of this approach and we’re keen to empower other communities, families and providers to benefit from what we’ve learned.”

Sharron Richmond, Pastoral and wellbeing Officer at Holy Trinity CE Primary School in Tulse Hill attended the training and said: “Being outdoors has hugely restorative effects, especially post-lockdown.”