(Romania) The project AoL – Active Outdoor Learning: Learning Actively in the Open Air was implemented by 5th- and 6th-grade students to raise awareness among children and young people about the importance of sport and outdoor physical activity. It engaged 50 students, supported by a teacher and a school counsellor, and involved 20 community partners. The initiative directly benefited 500 children and young people in the neighbourhood and indirectly reached 200 community members, including parents, teachers, and local institutions.
The project responded to the problem of children spending excessive time on screens and having limited opportunities for movement. Through focus groups with students and teachers, participants identified the need to promote physical activity and create better outdoor spaces. Students designed and implemented a set of activities that encouraged a healthier, more active lifestyle and stronger community engagement.
The main achievements included the creation of a bicycle and scooter parking area, the establishment of an outdoor learning and activity space, a health and education workshop with a psychologist, and an outdoor sports festival for children and young people. Students also developed and published an open educational resource (OER) containing ideas and recommendations for healthy living, with sections for both children and teachers.
The project seamlessly integrated learning and service. It combined practical community work with the learning goals of the Counselling and Personal Development curriculum, helping students adopt positive attitudes toward themselves and their well-being, develop teamwork and communication skills, and cultivate empathy, responsibility, and confidence. They learned to plan and implement projects, work with adults and experts, and reflect on the social impact of their actions.
The community benefited through improved access to safe spaces for outdoor learning and recreation, the availability of new educational materials, and greater awareness of healthy living. Teachers became more conscious of the importance of physical activity in education, and students grew more engaged and confident.
The project’s sustainability lies in the long-term use of the outdoor facilities and resources it created. The OER remains available for continuous use, and the new habits of outdoor activity and community participation are expected to bring ongoing social and health benefits.
By combining education, health promotion, and civic engagement, the project provided a practical and visible solution to a real community need. It demonstrates how young people can take the lead in creating positive, lasting change, promoting active citizenship, and improving well-being in their communities.