Research published in MDPI’s Education Sciences journal earlier this year highlighted the profound impact of nature-based activities on children and adolescents. Studies show that outdoor learning enhances psychological well-being, boosts social connectivity, and strengthens environmental awareness.
The research published in Education Sciences was a systematic review and meta-analysis of 21 studies evaluating the effects of outdoor recreation on children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 years published between 2014 and 2024. The findings from these studies emphasise the role of outdoor activities in addressing modern challenges such as urbanisation and climate change by fostering holistic youth development, with policymakers and educators encouraged to integrate outdoor programs and community initiatives to promote mental health, social cohesion, and environmental stewardship.
Schools Tree Day provides an ideal setting for students to experience these benefits firsthand while making a positive contribution to their local environment. Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling says that Schools Tree Day is more than just an environmental initiative, it’s an opportunity to support student learning in a meaningful and engaging way.
“Outdoor learning has been proven to boost students’ cognitive and emotional development and Schools Tree Day provides the perfect chance for educators to integrate nature into their curriculum, helping students connect with their environment while improving their overall well-being,” Gilling said.
With the increasing body of evidence supporting the need for outdoor learning as part of student development, Planet Ark is calling on Australian schools to take learning outside and help students get their hands dirty this Schools Tree Day on Friday, July 25. As part of the National Tree Day program, Schools Tree Day is the perfect opportunity for students from early learning to high school to connect with nature, learn about the environment, and enjoy the many health and wellbeing benefits of outdoor learning.
Since its inception, Schools Tree Day has seen thousands of schools across Australia participate, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious students. Whether planting trees in school grounds or local parks, students not only help create greener spaces but also gain a sense of achievement and connection to their community.
Join the movement and help grow young minds alongside green spaces this Schools Tree Day!Educators, parents, and students keen to get involved can register, access educational resources, and share their experiences by visiting treeday.planetark.org/get-involved/schools.