The Great Outdoors
- Prep
- The Great Outdoors
Set in 50 acres, our location offers our pupils a unique chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors, fostering a deep connection with nature. Our expansive grounds provide a safe yet inspiring environment for exploration and discovery.
Here, children can engage in a variety of outdoor activities that not only enhance their physical well-being but also stimulate their curiosity and creativity. Whether it's building dens in Forest School, a hands-on gardening activity, or a trip to visit the horses at our on-site Equestrian Centre, the opportunities for learning and growth are endless.
Forest School
We have a large area of designated woodland, called ‘The Enchanted Wood’ which we use for our Forest School sessions. The wood is furnished with two clearings, with log seating circles and fire pits. In one of the clearings we have our full outdoor classroom, with an all-weather awning, a storage area and sufficient seating for a whole class. Positioned around the blazing fire, with a cup of hot chocolate and a marshmallow on a stick, children are briefed about their outdoor challenges. They may be den building, or using tools to make equipment from tree branches. They may be moulding clay to form faces on trees or using the iPads to follow barcode trails.
Each class has a weekly Forest School session and, once a term, spend a full day completing all their lessons in the outdoor environment. The sessions take place in all weather, from snow to sun, our philosophy with the Norwegians is, there is no such thing as the wrong weather, only the wrong clothing. Building shelter in the pouring rain develops grit, determination and perseverance…and is enormous fun.
The possibilities of Forest School are endless, but the benefits remain the same. Forest School equips children with essential soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability, which remain valuable throughout their lives, even as specific knowledge may become outdated.
Forest School allows staff to gain new insights into their pupils' motivations and thought processes, which is invaluable in the classroom. While fresh air and exercise are key, Forest School is central to education at Leweston Prep, offering much more to students.
Gardening
We are proud to offer a variety of designated gardening areas that serve as a vibrant extension of our learning environment. Gardening is a regular component of our termly extra-curricular programme, providing students with a unique opportunity to connect with nature and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. These sessions offer more than just the practical experience of growing and planting, but also encompass enriching activities such as bird-watching, and lessons on the changing seasons. This holistic approach not only nurtures a love for the environment but also instils a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world.
Our Grounds
Our Pre-Prep pupils frequently embark on welly walks, while the entire school takes full advantage of the extensive sporting opportunities, participates in outdoor orienteering adventures, investigates pond ecosystems, enjoys dog walks, bring their art projects to the picturesque Belvedere, and thrive in a nurturing environment that provides ample room for growth.
The Equestrian Centre
Regular visits to the stables are encouraged, and pupils have the opportunity to get involved with replenishing hay and watching the horses enjoy their feed.
On our regular walks, we often visit the equestrian centre and watch the riding lessons taking place. Riding lessons will be on offer to our students from Prep 4 upwards.
