Our Outdoor Provision 

We are incredibly proud of our schools' outdoor provision which represents so much about how our school operates and plays a vital role in developing our children's skills through the offer of diverse environments and activities that extend beyond the traditional classroom. At our school, we are committed to utilising our fantastic outdoor spaces, which include a Forest Playground with tree climbing , den building, swings and opportunities to create which are only limited by our children's imagination.  There is also a climbing wall, a trim trail, a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), and our fields.  Tyres, crates, logs, branches and other resources are used in whichever way the children's imagination allows which, along with the opportunity to use our set of bikes, allows the children to discover other skills in a managed environment that encourages risk taking and the development of personal resilience. Complementing these active opportunities is a Quiet Area and Outdoor Learning base where children who might become overwhelmed with the busy-ness of our spaces can just 'be'.  Experiencing the outdoors is integral to enhancing our children's academic, emotional, physical, and spiritual development.

Academic Development

Our outdoor learning spaces provide unique, hands-on opportunities that complement indoor lessons. For example, tree climbing and den building foster problem-solving skills and creativity as children plan and execute their activities. The climbing wall and trim trail promote mathematical and scientific understanding through activities that involve measuring distances, calculating heights, and exploring concepts of force and motion. These practical applications of classroom knowledge help solidify students' understanding and retention of academic concepts.  In Lower Phase - Forest School and Upper Phase - Outdoor Learning classroom learning is reinforced through practical experiences.  The chance to play chess, complete jigsaws and create dances and routines adds another layer to the learning process.

Emotional Development

Engaging with outdoor activities supports our children in developing emotional resilience and confidence. Climbing trees and navigating the climbing wall challenge students to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-esteem. Den building encourages teamwork and cooperation, allowing children to build social skills and manage competing emotions as they work together towards a common goal. The natural environment and specifically our Quiet Area offers a calming atmosphere that can reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to overall emotional well-being.

Physical Development

Physical activity is crucial for healthy growth and development. Our outdoor facilities provide numerous opportunities for children to improve their physical health and motor skills. Climbing activities, whether on trees or the climbing wall, enhance upper body strength, coordination, and balance. The trim trail and MUGA offer spaces for running, jumping, and other forms of exercise that improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness. In addition children are presented with numerous opportunities to develop gross and fine motor skills and proprioception. Tyres and crates are used in imaginative play that involves sliding, pulling, lifting, carrying, and building, further developing strength and dexterity.

Spiritual Development

The outdoor environment provides a unique setting for spiritual growth, offering children a chance to connect with nature and reflect. Activities such as tree climbing and den building immerse students in the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment as does our establishment of the bike track through the forest. This connection can inspire a sense of responsibility towards nature and promote mindfulness and reflective practices. Quiet moments under trees, in dens or sat at tables with friends can serve as a space for thinking and personal reflection, contributing to spiritual well-being.

Our school's outdoor provision is an essential component of our PRIDE ethos, aiming to nurture well-rounded individuals. By integrating our outdoors into our curriculum, we provide children with invaluable opportunities to grow academically, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. This approach ensures that our children are not only well-educated but also resilient, healthy, and reflective individuals ready to navigate the complexities of life.