Outdoor Learning

Lots of the workshops we provide are well suited to developing and exploring the outdoor learning environment. We love getting our wellies on and getting out in the fresh air. Here are some of the projects we have done, but if you don't see what you want, don't worry, we are creative and we love a challenge!

Exploring and using natural materials educates children about their environment. They learn to be creative, using items they can find for free all around, and that are fun to use. Here are some examples. Mud sculpture or painting. Kids get their hands dirty making sculptures on trees or aboriginal style art.Leaves, twigs and a little imagination. Spirit houses and tiny beings can be created from garden rubbish.

We have helped schools develop both permanent and temporary outdoor learning areas, sometimes improving existing areas or creating new environmentsTinga Tinga was a refurbishment of an underused courtyard areaStorytelling areas or circles are also very popular and can be fixed or temporary.Creating shelters from recycled materials in the playground

Carole spent several years as an education officer at The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.
The beauty of embracing the outdoors as a classroom is that children learn to enjoy the weather, and begin to experience a much deeper interraction with their environment. Self confidence grows and with it, self esteem.
Activities are designed to foster the imagination, create and enjoy a bit of magic, and most of all, be fun.There are lots of opportunities in any woodland setting to build and create all sorts of things. from weaving a panel using willow and other found materials to creating a dragons nest!.Children learn to be safe around a fire.Pond dipping and mini beast hunts are always winning activities. The surprise and sense of wonder when some children see new creatures, or see them through a magnifying glass are difficult to recreate elsewhere.