The Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach is revolutionising the way we deliver education by taking learning beyond the classroom and into the natural world. Designed by educators, for educators, this award-winning approach uses the outdoors to support the curriculum in creative, sustainable, and inclusive ways. Whether you teach in Early Years, Primary, or SEND settings, this method allows you to deliver powerful learning experiences through nature-based play and active engagement.
Learn more about what the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach is.
What Is the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach?
At its core, the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach focuses on curriculum-linked outdoor learning using natural and recycled resources, rather than plastic or tech-heavy alternatives. Unlike Forest School or traditional bushcraft programmes, this method brings everyday subjects like phonics, maths, and science to life—outside.
The approach is centred around four pillars:
Curriculum-based outdoor learning
Sustainable practices and eco-awareness
Mindfulness and wellbeing
Inclusion and adaptability for all learners
You can get started by exploring our curriculum-based lesson plans and schemes of work.
Why Teach Outdoors?
Outdoor learning provides a wide range of benefits:
Enhances engagement and concentration
Builds confidence and teamwork
Encourages a love for nature
Improves physical and mental wellbeing
The Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach brings these benefits into every subject area through easy-to-follow resources and training. Discover our latest outdoor learning resources and see how easy it is to embed outdoor learning into your day-to-day teaching.
Who Is It For?
This approach is suitable for:
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Key Stage 1 and 2
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Alternative Provision and PRUs
Home educators
Teachers from all backgrounds can get started through our comprehensive outdoor learning training courses, which guide you through everything from theory to implementation.
The Benefits for Neurodivergent Learners
One of the most impactful elements of the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach is its inclusivity. Outdoor learning reduces pressure and overstimulation for neurodivergent children, offering a calm, open space where they can thrive. From sensory tasks to movement-based lessons, the method supports a wide range of learning styles.
Explore our resources tailored to inclusive settings in our SEND and Autism-friendly section.
Ready-Made Outdoor Learning Resources
We offer a wide range of downloadable and physical products, including:
Each resource is designed to make outdoor learning simple, manageable, and impactful for busy teachers.
Start Your Journey Today
You can begin your journey with us completely risk-free by signing up for our FREE 60-day trial, giving you access to hundreds of resources, planning tools, and lesson ideas. Whether you’re looking to transform one subject or your whole school’s approach, the Muddy Puddle Teacher method has everything you need to succeed outdoors.
Final Thoughts
In a time when children spend more time indoors and on screens than ever before, the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Approach offers a refreshing alternative. It empowers educators to create joyful, nature-rich learning experiences that boost academic achievement and emotional wellbeing.
Learn more about how to implement outdoor learning in your setting and join thousands of educators who are taking education outside—one muddy puddle at a time.