Subject lead: Mrs Dunlop

We are strongly committed to providing varied, engaging, experiential and cross-curricular Learning Outside the Classroom opportunities for our children at Fairfield. 

Outdoor Learning at Fairfield is integral to the curriculum and is delivered through a range of experiences which include weekly LOtC sessions for each class from EYFS through to year 4, visits to local places, outreach sessions delivered in school, after-school clubs and the opportunity to participate in both on-site and off-site residentials, including the Year 3 Camp Out and Year 4 off-site residential.

Opportunities for outdoor learning are embedded within curriculum planning across all subjects with Early Years enjoying unrestricted access to their own outdoor area as an extension to their classroom.

We are fortunate to be located within a beautiful rural village with a diverse range of habitats which can be easily accessed for the children to explore. We monitor the wildlife on our school grounds through our wildlife cameras...

On site we have a well established Forest School area which includes an outdoor classroom, two fire pits, adventurous play equipment and a mud kitchen. Our Sensory Garden incorporates a pond which children are able to access as part of planned activities and our hedged garden is home to raised beds allowing the children to grow a range of seasonal produce. 

As well as developing practical skills, enhancing and developing classroom learning, we recognise and value the personal and social benefits of outdoor learning in developing self-esteem, confidence and character, communication, social and emotional awareness, problem-solving, thinking skills, environmental awareness and health and well-being to name but a few.

We currently have links with the Woodland Trust Volunteers at Pepperwood and our local Housing Trust BDHT.