Welcome to Moray Outdoor Learning
Moray Council recognises the benefits of Outdoor Learning in helping young people of all ages develop skills for life.
Outdoor Learning can be used in a variety of settings to deliver all 4 capacities of the Curriculum for Excellence.
Taking learning outside the classroom can help:
- Boosting academic performance and attainment
- Improving personal and social development
- Improving physical, mental and emotional wellbeing
- Creating a connection with the natural environment
- Improving general behaviour
- Providing practical and pragmatic experience
Moray Council employs an Outdoor Learning Officer (OLO) to support Schools, the Youth Work team, Social Services and community organisations delivering Outdoor Education. The OLO acts as the Technical Expert, responsible for advising on best practice and safety for Adventurous Activities. The OLO also monitors EVOLVE and gives advice on best practice for non-adventurous excursions and visits.
Moray Council Policy and Guidance
Moray Council has adopted the Scottish Government’s “Going Out There” Framework as its main excursions policy. "Going Out There" provides an easy to read guide for planning and delivering excursions. The framework is supported by more detailed local policy documents. Links to all these documents can be found on EVOLVE and in the links below.
Going Out There - The Scottish Government Framework for Safe Practice in Off-Site Visits
Moray Council Guidance for Off-site Excursions (PDF)
Management of Excursions - Roles and Responsibilities (PDF)
Adventurous Activities - Standard Operating Procedures (PDF)
OL and Curricular Links
The following links provide guidance for teachers and educators on taking all elements of the Curriculum for Excellence outdoors to enrich the experiences of young people in all four contexts - curriculum, IDL, personal achievement and the ethos of the school.
Building your Curriculum - Outside and In
Curriculum for Excellence Fact File
More information on planning excursions is available on the Excursions webpage, at the link below.
Information on resources, forms and risk assessments to support Outdoor Learning and Excursions are available at the Resources link below.
Moray Council Contacts
Willem Smit (QIO) - willem.smit@moray.gov.uk
Chris Gransden (Outdoor Learning Officer) - chris.gransden@moray.gov.uk
Telephone 07890 275514
MISSupport - MISSupport@moray.gov.uk