Outdoor Education Trends to Watch in 2026

Outdoor education is constantly evolving. As schools, students and the world change, so do the ways we teach, explore and connect through the outdoors.

Here are the top trends shaping outdoor education in Victoria heading into 2026 — and how your school can stay ahead of the curve.

Quick Takeaways

  • Expect stronger links between outdoor programs and wellbeing frameworks
  • Place-based, culturally inclusive education is gaining traction
  • Technology is influencing planning, reflection and engagement — not just screens
  • Customisation and student agency are more important than ever

1. Wellbeing-led outdoor programs

In 2026, outdoor learning will continue to support student mental health, resilience and connection. Schools are choosing programs that:

  • Support whole-school wellbeing strategies
  • Provide safe space for students to unplug and reset
  • Foster belonging and confidence through teamwork

2. Outdoor education integrated with curriculum

Victorian schools are increasingly looking for camps that:

  • Link to specific curriculum outcomes in Science, HPE and Geography
  • Reinforce Personal and Social Capability development
  • Offer reflection, journaling and peer-led discussions

Programs are no longer standalone events — they are part of the learning journey.

3. Stronger cultural inclusion and Country connection

Expect more schools to seek outdoor programs that:

  • Acknowledge Traditional Owners and Country
  • Include Indigenous perspectives where appropriate
  • Teach sustainability and connection to place

This shift supports Reconciliation, deeper student engagement and place-based pedagogy.

4. Student-led learning and choice

In 2026, programs will place more emphasis on student agency:

  • Giving students voice in how the program runs
  • Offering leadership roles and peer mentoring
  • Providing space for reflection and group-decision making

These elements help students build ownership and deeper personal outcomes.

5. Smarter planning and feedback tools

While outdoor education is mostly tech-free, schools are using technology to:

  • Book and plan programs more efficiently
  • Gather student feedback after camps
  • Track learning outcomes and alignment with school goals

Bindaree provides templates, communication packs and custom program reports to help.

6. Customised, not cookie-cutter, experiences

Schools want outdoor education that fits:

  • Their student cohort (age, needs, goals)
  • Their calendar and curriculum
  • Their school culture and learning priorities

Providers that offer flexible, responsive design will stand out in 2026.

FAQs

Q: Will outdoor education still be relevant with the rise of AI and digital learning?

A: More than ever. As screen use increases, time in nature becomes essential for balance, wellbeing and real-world connection.

Q: Is it hard to align camps with the Victorian Curriculum?

A: Not with the right provider. Bindaree maps outcomes and provides documentation that supports curriculum goals.

Q: Are there new types of activities becoming more popular?

A: Yes — more schools are asking for reflection circles, Indigenous knowledge sharing and nature journaling alongside traditional outdoor skills.

Ready to evolve your outdoor education approach?

Contact Bindaree to design a program that reflects where outdoor learning is heading in 2026.

Bindaree Outdoor Education helps schools across Victoria stay ahead with flexible, curriculum-aware and future-ready outdoor programs.