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  • Outdoor Learning & Enrichment

    New experiences. Safe challenges. Lasting confidence.

    At The Orchard School, outdoor learning and enrichment are not extras-they are essential. For many of our pupils, success and self-belief begin beyond the classroom. That’s why we provide regular, structured opportunities to learn through movement, nature, creativity and challenge.

    These experiences help pupils to develop resilience, build relationships, regulate emotions and grow in confidence. Whether it’s learning to cook over a fire, exploring local woodland, or visiting a museum for the first time, we create safe but meaningful opportunities to take risks, succeed and shine.

    Our Offer Includes:

    • Weekly outdoor learning and forest school sessions across all phases
    • Gardening, conservation and seasonal projects
    • PE, team games and structured physical activity
    • Off-site visits to build cultural capital and real-life skills
    • Themed weeks and project-based learning (e.g. STEM, arts, enterprise)
    • Creative workshops, visiting artists and specialist sessions
    • A range of in-school clubs to explore interests, build social interaction and broaden experiences

    Forest School and Outdoor Learning Development

    As part of our ongoing 3-year site improvement project, we are developing a dedicated Forest School and Outdoor Learning space within our grounds. This area is being designed to meet individual pupil needs, offering calm, sensory-rich environments that nurture curiosity and connection with nature. Once complete, it will include learning shelters, fire and tool areas, and spaces for creative, therapeutic and environmental learning.

    This development forms a key part of our outdoor learning curriculum – supporting regulation, wellbeing and readiness to learn through hands-on exploration and safe challenges in nature.

    Why It Matters:

    • Helps pupils who may struggle with traditional classroom learning
    • Promotes sensory regulation and positive mental health
    • Builds social skills, independence and curiosity
    • Strengthens staff–pupil relationships through shared experiences
    • Encourages risk-taking in a safe, supported way

    Pupil Voice Leads the Way

    We listen to what pupils enjoy, want to try, and feel ready for-shaping activities around their interests and emotional needs. Where appropriate, enrichment is used as part of EHCP targets, therapeutic goals or attendance reintegration plans.