Section 2:

Field Work Theory, National Policy & Advice

Real World Learning Campaign (RGS et al. 2005)

To ensure that young people enjoy the benefits of high-quality and safe visits outside of the classroom, the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) supported the Real World Learning campaign. The RWLC involves the Field Studies Council, RSPB, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, National Trust and others.

The campaign recognises that many schools are reporting barriers to out-of-classroom learning through such issues as:


  • a lack of time through a crowded curriculum
  • fear of accidents and subsequent litigation
  • costs – including staff cover, insurance, transport
  • low status of out-of-classroom training and teaching
  • senior managements’ negative view of what is often seen as a disruptive activity.
The campaign ensured that in the 2005 UK general elections, all the major political parties made commitments to promote outdoor education.
Download the Real World Learning Document Pdf. here.

As a result of the campaign, the Government has set up a manifesto for education outside the classroom launched in November 2006. The RGS has pledged to support the government’s manifesto with further activities to train, advise and support high-quality and safe fieldwork.

In May 2006 the Real World Learning Partnership published a document called 'Out of Classroom Learning', which provides practical information and guidance for schools and teachers on all aspects of out of classroom learning.

The RWLP argue that:
Out-of-classroom learning offers fantastic opportunities and rewards
to both children and teachers alike.
It provides many benefits in terms of fun, enjoyment, personal
development, motivation and even increased subject performance. As
an holistic approach to teaching and learning, it allows young people to:

 become risk aware but not risk averse in managing their own safety
 undertake meaningful exercise as a means of staying healthy and learning more about themselves and their environment
 have fun and enjoyment and achieve negotiated goals
 have the opportunity to work with others and to contribute as ‘active citizens’ in a vast array of activities, many in their local community
 develop skills and self-confidence that can be applied later in their life.

Dowload a copy of the Out of Classroom Learning: practical information and guidance for schools and teachers Pdf.