School Visits

Immersive Outdoor Learning

Nestled in the heart of Laurel’s Wood lies our private woodland activity area. From here, removed from the stimulants of modern-day life, we provide unique outdoor learning experiences for schools curated by seasoned outdoor education specialists.

School children sawing wood in Laurel's Wood on a school trip

Our Approach

Combining a unique blend of structured sessions with a forest school ethos our sessions can include a diverse range of activities. From Bushcraft and survival skills, to archery, treasure hunts, nature art, woodland conservation and species identification, each experience is designed to engage students and develop confidence, build resilience and foster improvements in self-esteem, mental health and wellbeing, in a natural setting.

School children lighting a campfire on a school trip at Laurel's Wood

Tailored Sessions

Recognising the unique needs of every school and class, we customise programmes to suit various age groups, abilities and educational objectives. Collaborating closely with teachers, we integrate curriculum goals seamlessly into our sessions, whether it’s science, geography, history, art or physical education! We can offer one-off sessions or longer term programmes, including the Young Foresters Award.

School children enjoying a school trip to Laurel's Wood

Benefits of Outdoor Learning

As humans, we are designed and evolved to survive and thrive in nature! However, in the modern-day world, the sights, sounds and smells of regular exposure to natural environments are often lacking in children’s experiences of growing up. Research shows that people feel happier in nature, calmer, less stressed, more connected, which boosts cognitive abilities, fostering creativity, focus and overall wellbeing.

Since introducing school visits to Laurel’s Wood, we’ve witnessed transformative changes in students’ attention spans, engagement levels and regulated behaviour. Teachers consistently report remarkable changes among children, particularly those who struggle in traditional classroom settings. These positive outcomes extend beyond their visit, with students often exhibiting increased calmness and resilience back in school.

Kids enjoying bushcraft at Laurel's Wood

A Day at Laurel’s Wood

All visits are tailored to meet your school’s specific needs and abilities. Depending on your arrival and departure time, a day would typically involve an introduction to our site, morning and afternoon activity sessions with breaks for snacks, lunch and s’mores!

Cost

As a not-for-profit organisation, our visit costs are structured to cover event expenses, supporting our commitment to accessible outdoor education.  

  • Up to 10 children: £230

  • 10-16 children: £300

  • 17-30 children: £370

  • Larger groups: Contact us for pricing

School children building a den at Laurel's Wood

Activities

  • Bushcraft

  • Forest School

  • Natural Crafting

  • Survival Skills

  • Toolwork

  • Firelighting

  • Open Fire Cooking

  • Orienteering

  • First Aid

  • Archery and Axe Throwing

  • Woodwork

  • Species Identification

  • Introduction to Woodland Management

  • Environmental Awareness

  • Volunteering Opportunities

We work with a range of brilliant providers and can arrange for additional activities to be incorporated into your day. Please enquire for prices:

  • Balance and mini-mountain Bike Forest Adventure

  • Equine Therapy

  • Arts and Culture activities “Festival Theme”

  • Wildlife “Walk and Talks” with Wildlife Specialist

  • Yoga

  • Sound Bath

  • Forest Bathing

Boys happy at Laurel's Wood

Home Education

We can also offer private sessions specifically designed for home educated groups. Please get in touch for more details and to discuss how we can create a meaningful session for your home-ed group.

Quotes from Teachers, Carers and Charity Staff

  • “One child who is looked after — I was quite emotional watching him during the day as he turned into this brave, confident leader. On a normal school day, he cannot listen and forgets our rules but when on our trip to Laurel’s Wood he was a different person. He transformed into a true role model helping his friends and teachers enjoy the activities. He became a leader, an explorer.”

  • “All children I saw a change the ones who aren't confident in school dared to try new things and pushed out of their comfort zone. In addition, when coming back to the class the next day the children were all calm and amazed from the day and carried on the change of behaviour to within the classroom.”

  • “For our children, I felt like these activities were activities that they would have never had the chance to experience before and the confidence and joy they got from this will stay with them for a long time.”

  • “It was a great chill time for the children to explore the forest and play with the amazing space but also push their boundaries giving independence and allowing them to be creative explorers.”

  • “The children were so calm all day. They listened to instructions from the team, they kept themselves safe, they worked together, they explored, they showed independence, they were engaged, they gave everything a go, they learnt new skills and they had fun while doing it all.”

  • “City children change when brought into new, exciting venues like this one. They thrive! They need this more often. In fact, I would say it should be termly!”

  • “They loved it they all wanted to go back the next day, we have changed our outdoor classroom since going and a child has even said "It’s like we are back in the woods, it’s all magical.”

  • “The whole day all staff couldn't believe how amazing and were blown away by the woods and the team. Will definitely be back again! Thank you so much for giving this opportunity to our children who will never experience anything like this, and inspiring us within our own outdoor area.”

  • “I cannot say how brilliant our day was and the change in the children's behaviour in the outdoor environment everyone pushed their comfort zones, became leaders and fully embraced the day.”