Great Minds Think Outside

What is Great Minds Think Outside?
Launched in 2015, Great Minds Think Outside (GMTO) is a bilingual hands-on, curriculum-linked, outdoor professional development program that gives educators the skills and resources they need to take learning outside—whatever the subject matter! Great Minds feeds creativity, improves well-being, stimulates appreciation for nature, and encourages environmental stewardship through innovative outdoor learning. This program is the first of its kind in New Brunswick! By offering the sessions in a daily work environment, educators discover the possibilities of teaching in their own schoolyard.

Who is Great Minds Think Outside for?
Great Minds Think Outside is professional development exclusively for educators formal and non-formal. We offer sessions across the province and in both official languages.

If you are seeking activities and workshops that include your students please check out Earth Ed:

Earth Ed is a valuable tool to assist teachers and other educators in locating New Brunswick-based guest speakers, field trips, and student mentors.

• Earth Ed Homepage
• Add your organization's Resources to Earth Ed.


Benefits of Outdoor Learning Through GMTO

• Improved mental and physical health, and wellness for both students and educator; reduced transmission of illnesses outdoors
• Enhanced cooperation and problem solving skills
• Reduced challenging behaviours among students; increased learning outcomes
• A stronger connection with nature

What is a Session Like?
Great Minds Think Outside is a teacher training professional development program that usually takes place on school grounds during a professional development day. The program is extremely flexible, and we tailor the session to educators' needs and interests, including age group and subject matter; to the greenspaces the facility has access to; and to the number of educators present.

During the session, educators will:

• Learn key strategies to manage outdoor learning with ease

• Try out practical, hands-on activities linked to curriculum goals

• Gain access to over 40 New Brunswick-specific outdoor activities

• Receive curated links to free, educator-tested lesson plans online

Whether you're new to outdoor learning or looking to expand your practice, Great Minds Think Outside offers tools and inspiration to get started—outside.

Our Impact Map
Since May 2015, more than 160 Great Minds Think Outside sessions have taken place throughout New Brunswick! Have we been to your region or school?
Book your session today!


Testimonials

"This is the future of education." "All the activities can be adapted for all levels and all curriculums, reaching the hands on and kinaesthetic learners."
"It was empowering to see just how many ways we can use the land to teach subjects like math, science, and literacy. These hands-on activities are meaningful, adaptable, and something our students will love."

"They [Great Minds] took a big, open concept and made it simple and practical. The low-maintenance, high-impact games are perfect for schools with limited resources—I left feeling confident and excited to try them with my class."

"These sessions are fun, informative, and full of practical ideas. It was great to get outside, try the activities with my colleagues, and see so many opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning."

"I loved seeing how outdoor learning can be simple, low-prep, and still incredibly rich in cross-curricular connections."