With the OPEN project, we aimed to expand educational plans and strategies in the field of outdoor education, considering it a fundamental tool for acquiring skills related to environmental protection, the development of motor abilities, and the physical and mental well-being of students aged 3 to 13. The primary objective was to provide students with practical tools and knowledge that would make them active participants in sustainable change. Through the creation of a Handbook, we intended to improve the quality of teaching and enrich the educational offering.
The OPEN project aimed to expand educational strategies related to outdoor education, using it as a tool for promoting environmental awareness, physical skill development, and the overall well-being of children aged 3 to 13. Our goal was to equip students with the knowledge and resources needed to become active participants in sustainable change. Through a comprehensive Handbook, we sought to enhance the quality of teaching and educational offerings. This approach became even more essential after the COVID-19 lockdown, when numerous studies underscored the crucial role of nature and physical activity in the healthy development of young people. Through OPEN, we aimed to provide students with a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and physical education, both vital for healthy growth and active citizenship. The project aligned with the European Union’s priorities to promote physical well-being, environmental protection, and active citizenship, as well as with national guidelines emphasizing well-being and sustainable development. With this project, we intended to make outdoor education a core component of the school system.