There have long been those who have believed that learning outdoors should not be ‘just another subject, but rather a medium for an approach to learning and personal development that can be applied to virtually every subject or area of educational experience’ (Hargreaves et al, 1988:77).  The ‘outdoors’ can be interpreted in a range of ways within education, from outdoor learning environments in the EYFS to adventurous activities involving external providers (Pether, 2012).

At Timberley Academy, learning outdoors is an important part of our curriculum delivery, with its strand running through our school Blocked Curriculum. Teachers are encouraged to consider ways to use our outdoor learning environments in their planning and teaching of subjects across the curriculum. 

Forest Schools

At Timberley Academy, we have our own Forest School curriculum that encourages and inspires all our children through positive outdoor experiences.  We have developed our own Forest School area where children are able to take part in a range of exciting activities.  We have a trained forest school leader at Timberley who delivers engaging and motivating sessions, allowing children to develop their self awareness and in turn to reach their personal potential.  Children of all ages, from Nursery 1 right through to Year 6, are encouraged to test their curiosity about the world around them.  Children are given the opportunity to lead their own learning through stimulating activities that the children initiate.