EYFS

The Outdoor Classroom

This practical course focuses on creating purposeful outdoor learning environments within the early years. Learn how to design engaging outdoor spaces that support child development, communication, physical development, wellbeing, risk-taking and curriculum outcomes. Discover strategies to improve outdoor provision, staff practice and inclusive play using evidence-informed approaches.

Gemma Kirby & Tracie Butterfill 

2 hours

Online Course

By completing this course, you will:

appreciate the statutory importance of outdoor learning as an essential vehicle for holistic development and meeting EYFS framework requirements;
master the principles of effective outdoor pedagogy by balancing intentional teaching with child-led exploration and sustained shared thinking;
evaluate outdoor spaces—regardless of size or location—to design purposeful environments through strategic zoning and the use of ‘loose parts’;
distinguish between hidden hazards and managed risks to provide children with the physical and emotional challenges necessary for building resilience and judgment;
advocate for the value of outdoor provision by reframing "messy play" and effectively communicating its developmental benefits to staff and families.

Course Lessons

Written and presented by: Gemma Kirby

Gemma Kirby has 18 years experience as an Early Years Educator, leader, and consultant dedicated to improving early childhood education through inclusive, evidence-informed practice and a focus on wellbeing. As Twinkl’s Education Content Lead for Nurseries and Childminders, she leads the creation of high-quality EYFS-aligned resources that empower practitioners nationwide.

A former Lecturer in Education and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), she combines academic insight with hands-on expertise to support reflective, meaningful practice. As a Nursery Director, she works with local agencies and other stakeholders to drive curriculum design, staff development, and quality improvement.

Holding an MSc in Psychology of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Gemma enjoys exploring how early experiences shape lifelong development. She regularly writes for sector publications, championing calm, connected, and emotionally responsive approaches to early education.

As the current National Lead for Early Years (PVI and Childminders) and Families (0-2 year olds), and with over 30 years of experience in the early years sector, Tracie is passionate about early childhood education and dedicated to improving outcomes for all children. She holds Early Years Professional Status (EYPS), a BA in Early Childhood Studies, and is a qualified Mental Health First Aider.

In collaboration with: Tracie Butterfill

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Tracie has held a wide variety of roles, including Regional Trainer within the charity sector, Programme Manager for a Government-funded professional development programme, Higher Education Lecturer, School Trustee and Vice-Chair of Governing Body (primary), Local Authority Early Years Improvement and Standards Advisor and Early Years Equality and Inclusion Adviser, in addition to previously holding various roles within PVI settings.

Through collaborative working, innovative support and training, and ensuring high aspirations for all, Tracie remains committed to her goal of improving outcomes for every child.