Exploring Outdoor Learning in Nicosia: A TFES2025 Reflection
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of delivering an outdoor learning workshop at the TFES2025 conference in the beautiful city of Nicosia, Cyprus. The conference brought together educators from across Europe with a shared mission: to promote and prioritise the well-being of both pupils and staff in our schools. In attendance were over 250 educators, directors, deputy directors, and inspectors serving in pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools of the European Schools system, local teachers, national education representatives of the Cyprus school system, and other local and international stakeholders.
Standing under the Mediterranean sun, surrounded by passionate professionals, I felt an immediate sense of connection. The setting itself became a metaphor for what outdoor learning is truly about—freedom, fresh perspectives, and deeper engagement. The workshop aimed to highlight how taking learning outside the classroom not only enhances educational outcomes but also contributes meaningfully to mental health, emotional regulation, and social development—something I have been an advocate of for many years now!
What made the experience so impactful was the openness of attendees. Teachers, school leaders, and specialists from various educational contexts came together not just to listen but to contribute—to share their creative ideas, successes, and challenges. There was a genuine recognition that while our settings may differ, the heart of what we do remains the same: to support and uplift our pupils and each other with creative, dynamic practice and offer support towards helping develop young minds.
Through a series of hands-on activities, collaborative discussions, and quiet moments of reflection, the workshop became more than just a session—it became a space of shared purpose. Together, we explored how outdoor learning can be accessible, sustainable, and meaningful, regardless of climate or curriculum. My participants learned a lot from my enthusiasm and experiences; I was challenged by their impactful questions, which in turn brought out the best in me and my purposeful and meaningful delivery.
Beyond the conference walls, Nicosia itself offered a striking and memorable backdrop. As Europe's last divided capital city, it presented a powerful visual reminder of difference and resilience. Wandering through the contrasting architecture, languages, and cultures of the city’s Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides, I was struck by how much richness and depth come from diversity and how important it is to hold space for multiple perspectives.
In many ways, Nicosia mirrored the conference's themes: the need to listen, share, and find common ground even across historical divides. Whether in education or wider society, real progress happens when we choose connection over division, curiosity over assumption, and empathy over isolation. My time in the city—and at TFES2025—left me hopeful, reminded of the power of knowledge-sharing, and energised to continue championing well-being and collaboration in our schools.
I am grateful to have participated in such an inspiring event and received support from my school. I look forward to continuing the conversation with this amazing community of educators and hope to share my experiences whenever possible..
