YOUNGSTERS are enjoying the great outdoors and boosting their performance in the classroom at the same time.

Merley First School has been holding Outdoor Adventures sessions for pupils in Years 1, 2 and 3 since the beginning of the academic year..

And staff at the school, part of Wimborne Academy Trust, said the weekly sessions are having a significant beneficial impact on learning.

Head teacher, Jane Phillips, said: “We decided to introduce Outdoor Adventures into our timetable as research shows this type of learning improves a child’s motivation, concentration and application.

“Now we are seeing this in practice and it is having a huge impact on our children’s learning. Their concentration in class has improved as has their confidence.

“And for some children it has also helped improve their speaking, listening and interaction in class.”

The sessions see the youngsters spend a whole afternoon outside,whatever the weather.

In the school’s nature area they learn new skills such as using tools to whittle wood.