Teachers step outside the classroom for exciting Eden Project weekend
Early Career Teachers (ECTs) at Learning in Harmony Trust (a family of 14 primary and special schools across London and Southend) recently stepped away from the classroom for an inspiring professional development weekend at the Eden Project in Cornwall. The weekend was designed to support teacher wellbeing and provide practical guidance on nature-based teaching strategies.
Eleven ECTs in their second year of teaching, alongside three more experienced teachers completing the Chartered College of Teaching Developmental Programme, came together for an experience combining reflection, coaching and professional learning within the unique natural setting.
Moving away from traditional training models, participants explored key themes including regenerative sustainability, personal regeneration and the renewal of teaching practice. With a strong focus on nature-based education, teachers took part in practical sessions that demonstrated how learning can be taken outside the classroom by using the natural world to enrich lessons and support education for sustainable development.
Wellbeing and self-care were at the heart of the weekend. Teachers engaged in guided wellbeing experiences across the Eden site, as well as quiet group coaching sessions that created space for reflection and helped participants turn their personal “why” into clear future plans. Just as importantly, the weekend provided valuable opportunities for teachers from different schools across the Trust to build connections, share experiences and a strengthened sense of community.
Stephanie Mkandawire, an Early Career Teacher who took part in the weekend, said:
“Stepping away from the classroom helped me reconnect with why I became a teacher; it was great to have the chance to share my experiences with other ECTs across the Trust. The weekend left me feeling re-energised and more confident about using nature in my teaching.”
Jane Cruickshank, Early Careers Framework Lead and Initial Teacher Training Lead at Learning in Harmony Trust, said:
“At Learning in Harmony Trust, we’re committed to professional development that supports teachers as whole people. Experiences like this weekend at the Eden Project give teachers time to build resilience and develop sustainable approaches to their practice. Supporting wellbeing and strong professional communities is central to helping our teachers thrive and continue making a difference for our pupils.”