Developing social-emotional skills through outdoor physical activities: when physical education goes into nature and doesn’t come back the same

We invited physical education teachers from primary and secondary schools to present the results of our project, in which we explored the connection between outdoor physical activities and social-emotional learning. The aim of the course was to encourage teachers to use outdoor methods for the holistic development of their students. We took advantage of the new facility on Veslařská Street, which provides space for both indoor theoretical seminars and outdoor activities, including water-based ones.

The teachers had the opportunity to try out how to create a positive atmosphere and how to use evocative methods in outdoor settings. They discovered that a teacher can also act as a facilitator, not just a director of student activity. Participants left with a practical toolkit of activities and skills for leading reflection. There was also time for sharing personal experiences and expanding professional networks. We were especially happy to see some of our alumni again after a while, and we thoroughly enjoyed the day.

We would like to thank everyone who came with an open mind and a willingness to move, ask questions, and share.

Because on the outdoor path, one doesn’t just sweat — one sometimes understands, too.

On behalf of the instructor team,

Alena Skotáková and Sylva Hřebíčková