Primary and secondary pupils can explore exciting outdoor learning experiences at our new Woodlands Forest School. It includes access to our 10-hectare Nature Reserve on the Stoke-on-Trent campus, which features a pond, river, wood and wildflower meadow. We also have a garden area alongside our carbon neutral building.
The sessions are part of our vision to become a groundbreaking centre for outdoor teaching, learning and research. Local schools can draw on this amazing resource to put sustainability into a real-life context for children.
The activities – which bring a forest experience to the heart of Stoke-on-Trent – will help to improve young people’s confidence, motivation and wellbeing. Children will also:
- Become guardians of nature
- Build their skills and ambition
- Use exploratory learning
Over time, we will also be offering activities for the local community, placement opportunities for University students, and training courses for outdoor educators. Our Institute of Education experts will lead research into best practice with outdoor learning.
Future opportunities include supporting the Department for Education’s Climate Leaders and National Education Nature Park initiatives. These will give schoolchildren the chance to earn awards for their environmental work and to champion biodiversity.
Schools keen to use our Woodlands Forest School can now register their interest. We will be offering flexible options, including half-day and full-day sessions.