Scotland Makes Residential Outdoor Education Mandatory for All Pupils

Scotland has become the first nation to guarantee every pupil access to residential outdoor education, after MSPs passed the Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Bill. The legislation ensures all children in grant-aided and state schools can take part in at least five days and four nights of outdoor learning during their school career.

The Bill, proposed by Conservative MSP Liz Smith, passed with 120 votes in favor, none against, and one abstention. Smith described the move as “transformational,” highlighting that residential trips teach self-reliance, teamwork, leadership, and offer opportunities to engage with nature—experiences that many children, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, have previously missed.

The outdoor education sector has welcomed the legislation. Martin Davidson, CEO of the Outward Bound Trust, said the Bill gives young people the chance to develop confidence, resilience, and social skills that “can’t be taught on a screen.” He called residential outdoor education “a need-to-have, not a nice-to-have.”

Mark Castle, CEO of the Field Studies Council, described the Bill as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” that will benefit hundreds of thousands of Scottish pupils. He said the experiences enrich learning across all subjects, promote wellbeing, and leave lasting memories. Castle also urged governments in England and Wales to follow Scotland’s lead.

James Blake, CEO of YHA England & Wales, echoed this, calling residential outdoor learning “vital” for building resilience, leadership, and teamwork. He stressed that Scotland has shown what is possible with political will and cross-party support, and that all UK children should have access to the same life-changing experiences.

The legislation is widely hailed as landmark and transformative, securing outdoor education as a core part of the Scottish curriculum and giving every pupil the opportunity to benefit from immersive learning in nature.

Scotland has become the first nation to guarantee every pupil access to residential outdoor education.

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