EDUCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
THE VALUE OF OUTDOOR LEARNING AT SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL
WATCHING CHILDREN EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS- ASSESSING RISKS, DISCOVERING NATURE AND DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE- IS A JOY LIKE NO OTHER. AT SUTTON VALENCE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR LEARNING AND THE FOREST SCHOOL APPROACH ARE CENTRAL TO THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE, HELPING EVERY CHILD DEVELOP CURIOSITY, RESILIENCE AND A LIFELONG LOVE OF LEARNING.
The Magic of Outdoor Learning
Outdoor learning offers far more than fresh air and adventure. It provides children with invaluable opportunities to build confidence, independence and emotional intelligence. Research by the Forestry Commission shows that children who engage regularly with nature display stronger social skills and enhanced problem-solving abilities.
The natural environment is the perfect setting for children to explore, question and learn at their own pace. Activities such as den building, fire lighting, pond dipping and nature art provide opportunities to assess risk safely, collaborate with friends and develop perseverance. These experiences promote physical development as well as creativity, imagination and emotional wellbeing.
Time in nature also supports positive mental health, reducing stress and encouraging happiness. Working collaboratively outdoors fosters empathy and teamwork while developing a sense of care for the environment. These lessons, about respect, responsibility and resilience, reach far beyond the forest floor.
Outdoor Learning at Sutton Valence School
At Sutton Valence, outdoor learning is woven throughout the curriculum. From the youngest pupils in the Prep School to the oldest in the Senior School, children benefit from regular opportunities to learn beyond the classroom walls. The school’ s extensive grounds provide an inspiring environment for exploration and discovery, offering children space to learn and play in the natural world.
Forest School sessions are led by trained staff who nurture curiosity and independence. Whether examining mini beasts, building shelters or creating art inspired by the seasons, pupils learn through doing, experimenting and reflecting. This hands-on approach makes learning tangible, memorable and happy.
Importantly, Sutton Valence embraces the belief that there is no such thing as bad weather- only unsuitable clothing. Each season brings new opportunities for exploration and challenge, allowing children to experience the beauty of nature all year round.
Muddy Explorers Reception Open Event
Why not come and see for yourself? We would love to welcome you and your family to our Muddy Explorers Reception Open Event on Saturday 22 November, from 9:30am to 11am. The morning is designed for children aged two to four who are currently in Reception or looking for a Reception place in 2026 or 2027. Siblings are warmly welcome, too.
Bring your wellies and enjoy hot chocolate around the fire, storytelling beneath the trees, nature-inspired crafts and plenty of wonderful mud. It is the perfect way to experience the magic that happens when lessons move beyond the classroom and into the great outdoors.
To find out more, please contact our admissions team on 01622 845200 or book your place online.
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