ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ

This project worked with neurodivergent young people in mainstream education, particularly those at risk of exclusion or disengagement, to test how outdoor learning combined with creative digital environments can impact on engagement and learning. Overall, the researchers conclude that blending nature-based and digital creative learning can significantly improve engagement, wellbeing and inclusion for neurodivergent learners, and they recommend that this should be built into mainstream provision.

Key findings are:

• Relationships matter. Informal, collaborative activities built trust, belonging and peer connection.
• Movement helps learning. Students thrived in environments allowing movement, sensory engagement and active participation rather than static classrooms.
• Flexibility and space are vital. Flexible environments both inside and outside enabled self-regulation and emotional safety. Additionally, moving between physical and digital spaces supported creativity, confidence and achievement.
• Positive whole-school impact. Schools reported improved behaviour, engagement and confidence.

Implications for policy and practice:

• Recognise non-formal learning environments (farms, youth settings, digital platforms) as legitimate and valuable.
• Shift to a neurodiversity paradigm: move from deficit-based to strengths-based approaches.
• Invest in cross-sector working (schools, youth services, community organisations).
• Provide professional development on inclusive, participatory and digital practices.