The Historical and Modern Impact of Trekking on Human Growth:
This course delved into the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral benefits of hiking in both natural and urban environments. It also explored how trekking-based education ties meaningful learning to environmental stewardship, especially in the face of climate challenges.
The latest edition of the course, Outdoor Learning and Adventure Education, was held in Tenerife from November 24–30, 2024. Participants hailed from various European countries: Sarmīte από Tukuma novada pamatskola “Spārni” in Latvia; Katarína από ZŠ s MŠ Slatina nad Bebravou in Slovakia; Varpu, Kaija και Kirsi από Linnainmaan koulu in Finland; Andreas από Dominik-Brunner-Realschule Poing και Maximilian from Schule im Grünen Winkel Lippstadt both in Germany; Kimmo από Äänekosken lukio in Finland; Vaclava και Petra από Gymnázium, Český Krumlov και Μαρκέτα από Lipka – školské zařízení pro environmentální vzdělávání Brno, příspěvková organizace, schools in Czech Republic; Ewa από SZKOŁA PODSTAWOWA im. Tadeusza Kościuszk in Poland, and Rūta και Vilma από Klaipėda Baltija Gymnasium in Lithuania.
Understanding and Expanding Trekking Education:
The program began by introducing participants to the concepts of trekking education and outdoor learning. A key focus was exploring strategies for encouraging students to embark on trekking adventures. The course emphasized that “outdoor learning” doesn’t only refer to forests or natural settings. One segment spotlighted urban trekking education, teaching participants how to integrate science, mathematics, music, art, and languages into hands-on urban exploration activities. In local parks, participants practiced a variety of tools and activities, exchanging ideas and brainstorming ways to create their own outdoor learning experiences. This hands-on approach inspired educators to implement these tools with their students.

Immersive Trekking Experiences and Pedagogical Insights:
On the third day, participants embarked on a scenic 9.4 km trek in La Caldera, a breathtaking area 40 minutes from Puerto de la Cruz. Along the way, they explored the principles of Non-Formal Education (NFE), an approach where students’ hands-on experiences form the foundation for learning. The method emphasizes reflection and real-world application of newly acquired knowledge. Wednesday featured a visit to Mount Teide National Park, where participants trekked around the iconic Roques de García. The day was dedicated to discussions about fostering teamwork, building team spirit in the classroom, and motivating students for outdoor adventures.
Challenging Treks and In-Depth Methodologies:
Thursday’s highlight was a 12.9 km trek from Mirador Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo, offering participants a deeper dive into trekking-based teaching methods. The session also examined Kurt Hahn’s 10 principles, treasure hunt, and their application in outdoor education. By the end of the week, each participant developed a lesson plan integrating trekking into their subject area.
Crafting Tailored Outdoor Learning Experiences:
The final phase of the course focused on designing customized trekking activities tailored to the participants’ students. Each teacher planned an outdoor session considering their pupils’ ages, skills, and academic goals. On Friday, participants enjoyed a one-hour walk through banana plantations to Playa El Bollullo. On the stunning black sand beach, they presented their plans, receiving constructive feedback to refine their ideas further.   A Week of Experiential Learning:
This course showcased the transformative power of experiential learning through trekking. By immersing themselves in outdoor education, participants gained practical tools to design meaningful, curriculum-aligned trekking activities for their students.