

Innovative education and social development play a vital role in the long term wellbeing of any thriving nation. It is recognised many by educationalists, policy-makers and innovators that the underlying determinants of inequalities in physical and mental health and well-being can be addressed via learned behaviours and experiences in our children and young people.
Access to outdoor spaces, innovation in teaching and learning practices as well as innovative policy, along with investment, have the potential to change the way our young people interact with current and future generations to build stronger, healthier, happier communities and relationships for the future.
With this in mind, it is vital that we examine the issues relating to access to green space and forestry, play and learning, new green spaces in the built environment, outdoor education and the role these factors can play in the current and future wellbeing and educational attainment of Scotland’s people.
There are a growing number and variety of organisations, including Scottish Government agencies, NDGBs, private companies and charities, working in this field and looking at a variety of issues and strategies. This conference will examine the issues outlined above and encourage debate and development through expert analysis and evidence based case studies and is relevant to all parties from the private, third and public sectors working within this field.
The agenda for this event is below and will be updated as new speakers and partners are confirmed.
Outdoor Play and Education 2018, June 12th, Saracen St, Glasgow
9:20 Introduction from the chair – Alison Motion, Scotland Director, Grounds for Learning
9:30 The Role of Outdoor Spaces and Access
The importance of play – Marguerite Hunter Blair, Chief Executive, Play Scotland
The potential of outdoor play based learning in early years development – Rachel Cowper, Program Manager, Inspiring Scotland
The benefits of outdoor education – Natalie White, Curriculum Outdoors Attainment Challenge, East Ayrshire Council
Outdoor education and the curriculum for excellence
Q&A
10:50 Break and networking
11:10 Access and funding for outdoor play and learning
Learning in, access to and funding for greenspace – Penny Martin, Environment and Forestry (ENFOR) Learning Project Officer, SNH
Funding for Outdoor Play and Education
Outdoor education case study – Niall McShannon, Chief Executive, CCI
12:15 Closing remarks from the Chair
12:25 Lunch and Networking
14:00 Close
Join the conversation and reserve your place now!
Delegate places for this event are now available and you can reserve yours by clicking here or using the button below. Delegate places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis so we do recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.