'Hidden curriculum' is an essential by-product of the skills that our children learn. The aim of focusing on the hidden curriculum can show how important these skills are in society. Being able to develop these hidden skills will help create a well rounded young individual.
What is the Answer?
Ways of building your hidden curriculum:
- Respectful
- Work hard
- Responsibility
In order to do this we need to ensure we are effective in:
Positive relationships
Despite it having it's challenges in the beginning, it is paramount that positive and professional relationships are made. In regards to outdoor learning, we rely on these relationships to support, motivate, and challenge all. This impacts upon a child's development and will allow them to understand the importance of upholding these skills and relationships.
Positive communication
- Communication is an essential prerequisite in the teacher-pupil relationship
- Regular feedback can increase pupils’ confidence, which conveys warmth and a shared understanding, which enhances trust. This can be done through reflections that allow all children to share and promote mutual respect
- Reflection can help pupils recognise, and learn from their mistakes
- Pupils who display confidence will be well equipped to lead, plan and evaluate at an individual, group and whole class level
Also it is important for you to consider whether there is a place for the hidden curriculum in your school.
If you are wanting to enhance your pupil's opportunities to engage in the hidden curriculum, then below are a number of activities that can promote their hidden skills, that specifically link to building relationships and communication.
Instructional Activities
'Instructional activities' looks at growing communication skills. These activities aim to explicitly follow instructions to achieve the task.
Team Building Activities
'Team building activities' focus on developing positive relationships. The aim for these activities is to give the groups challenges that help create experiences and bonds with each other.
Plenaries & Reflections
Impact can be measured by regular plenaries and reflections throughout the sessions to ensure an understanding has been instilled.
Examples of questions that you can include are:
- What strategies did you use in this activity?
- What do you notice and how have you improved?
- What things should you pay careful attention to?
- How can you apply this outside of the session?