Friluftsliv is another Nordic word/concept/expression which we can learn a lot from. Literally translated, it means 'open-air living'. This means getting outside everyday no matter the season, weather or what mood you're in. This is generally a part of Nordic culture where there is an emphasis on spending time in nature and being close to greenery, forests and water. Historically, this may have meant spending extended periods of time in the great outdoors, but nowadays it can mean spending a part of every working day or school day outside, either as part of or in addition to the normal outdoor recreation time.
In Norway, Friluftsliv is included into the school curriculum. This means that all children will be taught in an outdoor setting and will learn the skills needed to have adventures and stay safe when outside; this includes skills such as swimming, orienteering, building a shelter, foraging safely for food, using tools, and practising simple first aid techniques. Some of the teachings come from the Sami people (who are indigenous to Scandinavia) and their traditions, which helps children to understand their culture and develop in a more rounded way. This approach has been shown to improve social, emotional, physical and cognitive development in children and teenagers.
The English curriculum includes some outdoors education but this is generally in the context of sport rather than learning about the outdoors. Forest Schools are becoming increasingly prevalent but this is mainly in the primary school setting. Why not think about adopting some of the ethos of friluftsliv and include it in your curriculum? What benefits could it bring to both the children and staff at your school?
