When development of the National Education Nature Park programme began in late 2022, the Department for Education commissioned research consultants Ecorys to produce an independent, rigorous evaluation of the Nature Park programme, and the executive summary of this has now been published.
Summary of Positive Findings
- Pupils enjoy outdoor learning, especially those with limited access to nature outside school.
- 72% of users find the Nature Park digital tools easy to use.
- Over one‑third of registered settings are new to nature-related programmes.
- 38% of settings come from communities with with higher-than-average eligibility for Pupil Premium and free school meals, driven by the grants programme.
- Most teachers report that curriculum resources are easy to use and adaptable.
- Reported outcomes include:
- More time spent in nature
- Improved school grounds
- Increased wellbeing
- Greater knowledge of biodiversity and climate change
- More lessons on biodiversity and climate change
- Benefits span emotional, educational and environmental impacts across all age groups:
- Early years: better language development, emotional and behaviour regulation
- Primary: strong engagement from pupils who struggle with behaviour in classrooms
- Secondary: pride in improving spaces and motivation for further climate‑positive actions
Areas of Development
- Tailoring the programme for Early Years with new dedicated guides and resources.
- Developing the programme for SEND and Alternative Provision settings over the coming year.
- Conducting research into wellbeing impacts for both young people and educators.
- Improving access to programme data. The Nature Park Map is now live, with a new data‑exploration site launching soon.
- Increasing co‑creation by bringing more educator and young people’s voices into the programme.
- Ongoing website and user‑journey improvements.
- Publishing more case studies to share best practice and inspire others.
Read the full report on the GOV.UK website
You can can keep abreast of developments by reading our regular updates on the Nature Park.