By Dakota Murphey
In an era where technology dominates and urban developments encroach upon natural spaces, maximising the UK’s green space has never been more important.
In UK schools particularly, green, natural spaces offer more than just aesthetic charm; they play a vital role in enhancing pupils’ cognitive development, mental well-being and academic performance.
Headteachers have a moral duty to uphold their schools’ appearance as well as their Ofsted ratings, and if green and natural spaces continue to wither away the premises can quickly appear sterile and lifeless. Therefore, it’s in their best interests to enhance their schools’ natural appearances as much as possible. Investing in more green spaces offers a compelling dual-pronged opportunity to do so, supporting educational developmental goals and contributing positively to the environment.
The cognitive benefits of natural learning environments
Research continually demonstrates that increased exposure to natural environments significantly improves pupils’ cognitive function. Being in nature has been linked to an increased attention span, creativity, and memory, often citing the therapeutic effects of nature on the brain and reduced sensory overload. Recent collated data suggests that regular access to nature can improve concentration in students, not just in school but also at home.
The restorative effect that natural environments have on young minds is believed to combat mental fatigue that often occurs in traditional classroom settings. Though the reasons for how and why are still being understood, some research suggests that connecting with the environment offers several benefits, and this is helped by moving away from screens and technology that have enveloped our daily lives.
Schools that have integrated natural spaces into their grounds may often witness significant improvements in pupils’ engagement and academic achievements. Spending time in green spaces can evoke a sense of calm, promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Green spaces also boost dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, while lowering feelings of anger, anxiety and frustration. Research has also shown that spending time in green spaces can benefit the immune system, making the body more resilient to disease. Coupling this with improved sleep quality and improved exercise routines, schools can foster a green environment that contributes positively to all of their students.
Creating versatile outdoor learning spaces
Forward-thinking schools are discovering innovative ways to incorporate green spaces into their existing premises. While some institutions benefit from extensive grounds, others demonstrate that even modest spaces can be transformed. For example, a well-designed MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area) surrounded by carefully planned green borders brings students closer to nature when exercising outdoors, while creating a productive natural learning zone for outdoor classroom activities.
Other ideas might include small-scale allotments, gardens, or plant beds which, when utilised and cared for properly, offer students the chance to immerse themselves in their green surroundings. Even small spaces with plenty of plants and trees function as natural air filters, which is a welcome reprieve from built-up urban areas prone to excessive air pollution. At the same time, greenery can create a more peaceful and conducive learning environment for students, whether they’re involved in cultivating plants as part of school projects or simply enjoying the great outdoors.
Supporting mental health and wellbeing
The mental health advantages of green spaces are especially relevant today given recent growing concerns about pupil well-being in many UK schools. Access to natural environments has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in young pupils, while a recent report by the Mental Health Foundation suggests that 70% of UK adults find being close to nature improves their mood.
Government data shows a concerning trend in UK schools with 20.7% of pupils showing as ‘persistently absent’ for the 2023-2024 academic year, with more children being referred to NHS mental health services for anxiety than before the pandemic. Given these challenges, the UK government is currently assessing ways to improve children’s emotional, social and behavioural well-being in schools, recognizing this is an issue that extends beyond specific age groups.
Green spaces can provide a vital place for students to ‘decompress’ and unwind, resetting comfortably between lessons. This is particularly beneficial for pupils with special educational needs or those who are experiencing elevated stress levels. Schools should encourage designated quiet areas within natural settings to help their pupils better emotionally regulate themselves, promoting mindfulness and reflection where possible.
Implementation strategies for headteachers
For school leaders considering how to upgrade their green spaces, several practical approaches can help.
- Start Small and Scale Up
Begin with a pilot test on areas that could do with immediate restoration and see how those projects go. Even upgrading a single courtyard or garden can unlock tremendous potential for large-scale projects. If successful, work diligently to build support for larger initiatives.
- Engage the School Community
Involve as many people as possible in planning, designing and maintaining green spaces. Pupils, staff and even parents can all offer valuable input and ideas to cultivate sustainable, well-used facilities.
- Seek External Support
Many organisations offer expertise, advice and grants for school greening projects. Tel Group’s Go Green Scheme is a good programme worth considering for current or planned projects to improve sustainability in schools and cultivate more green spaces.
- Consider Year-Round Usage
Design spaces that remain accessible and educational throughout the academic year. Consider covered areas and all-weather surfaces where appropriate.
Looking to the future
As the education sector continues to evolve, the importance of green spaces as a learning enhancement tool becomes increasingly apparent. Headteachers and education decision-makers who invest in natural environments and thoughtful upgrades to their existing infrastructure will be best positioned to thrive, fostering an environment where natural life and academic performance can both thrive.
More importantly, however, the health benefits of making such upgrades will be invaluable for your students. Spending time and resources to make their learning environment more enriching and natural will benefit both current and future pupils, leading to greater all-round success for the school.
Thoughtfully integrating green spaces into school grounds that nurture pupils’ physical and mental well-being should firmly be on every headteacher’s agenda for the years ahead. The initial investment in these spaces will invariably pay dividends through improved learning, enhanced pupil engagement, and environmental consciousness.
