Here, at The Prep, we are passionate about outdoor learning, particularly as our large 25 acre site borders Knole Park (1,000 acres); we have a dedicated Forest School and wonderful Outdoor Learning areas within our school grounds, that we take full advantage of throughout the year. Forest School is an initiative which originated in Scandinavia in the 1950s, which aims to increase the understanding and appreciation, particularly among young people, of the environmental, social, and economic potential of trees, woodlands and forests. This is very much a part of our ‘Way of Life’ and something we fully embrace across the school.
We incorporate the Forest School principles within our own outdoor learning ethos, classes from Nursery to Year 6 enjoy regular opportunities to learn in the great outdoors. In the Pre-Prep, these sessions are known as Outdoor Adventures, while in the Prep they continue as Outdoor Learning. Being outside is essential for healthy development as this energy provides children with invaluable experiences that can directly influence their physical and emotional development, social skills and creativity. By taking learning outside, connections are made between experiences and can often enhance cognitive development to the links, understanding and associations made. Plus, it is just great to be out playing in the rain, snow and sun!
Our four main sites comprise of The Forest, The Nature Trail, The Allotment and The Chippings and we also have other dedicated sites throughout the school.
- The Forest is our largest site where you will find the billowing parachute over the covered fire pit providing a cozy area for storytelling, food preparation, fire building and tool use. At this site there is the opportunity to safely climb trees, take a voyage in the pirate ship or balance on the slack line.
- The Nature Trail is a path of discovery, never knowing what wildlife you will come across! There is so much to explore including the pond, wildlife within the bird hide and bug houses but to name a few.
- The Allotment is a garden of learning for all our Pre-Prep children, where they plant and nurture a wonderful variety of fruit and vegetables. Some of their harvest is taken home to share with their families, while the rest is cooked in the Forest, enjoyed in the mud kitchens, or used to help children develop their early tool skills in fun, hands-on ways.
- The Chippings is mainly used by our older children in their Outdoor Learning lessons. It is the home of our child made eagles nest, den building and often an area where pupils learn how to use tools safely including bow saw, bill hook, sheath knife and palm drills.
