The Great Outdoors
The Great Outdoors – Outdoor Learning Experience for Reception to Year 3
An adventurous, curriculum-linked programme designed to help children explore, discover and survive in the natural world.
The Great Outdoors programme is a full day of interactive outdoor learning split into three sessions.
Working in groups of up to 12, children journey through our natural woodland environment to experience hands-on learning in the Great Outdoors.
Session 1: DISCOVER – Wildlife Exploration in the Great Outdoors
Children investigate what lives in our woodland through two exciting activities:
- Stream Dip: Using nets and kick sampling techniques, children uncover the hidden world of swimming bugs. Their discoveries are placed in our “bug swimming pool” for close observation. Using creatures like the Mayfly, we explore life cycles and food chains within the stream habitat. Wellington boots are essential!
- Bug Hunt: Lifting logs and stones, children search for crawling and slithering woodland creatures. Guided by instructors, they safely capture bugs and place them in a temporary “bug hotel” for observation. Using examples like the earthworm, we discuss their importance in the ecosystem and how we can care for their environment.
Session 2: EXPLORE – Choose Option A, B or C
- Terrific Tree Tour: Navigating using a simple map, the children will be guided on an exciting circular walk through our woodland to explore the many different tree species. The children will be tasked with identifying trees by their leaves and studying leaf identification charts. The children will be encouraged to use all their senses, including taste, touch and smell, to learn about our leafy friends and understand what trees and plants do for us.
- Welly Walk Adventure: The group will be guided on an exciting welly walk along the length of our stream. On the way, they will need to splash through shallow pools, scramble over rocks and climb over and under fallen tree branches. Obstacles such as the Gruffalo’s Cave, the Log of Doom and the Slippery Slabs make this a true adventure.
- Saving Cyril Cyril is our friendly Squirrel who has lost his way home. Can you help Cyril find his way safely back to the drey? This guided story trail through the woodland will take the children to explore the different animals that live in the wood and how the food chain works. (perfect for Early years – Year 1).
Session 3: SURVIVING – Shelter Building & Campfire Cooking
Children learn essential outdoor survival skills through two activities:
- Shelter Building: Working as a team, children build a woodland shelter using tarps, ropes and sticks to protect themselves from the incoming “storm”.
- Foraging & Campfire Bread Making: Children forage for seasonal natural ingredients and bake their own bread over a campfire. A fun, hands-on and delicious experience.
Testimonials
Additional Info
- Outdoor Elements Activities Limited was established in 2001.
- Registered centre at LCC (EV231).
- All instructors are fully trained/qualified in the activity, have been DBS cleared and first-aid trained.
- All activities are instructor-led.
- Outdoor Elements staff will provide all activity, safety and emergency equipment.
- Written risk assessments are available for all activities.
- We hold Professional Indemnity, Civil Liability & Employers Liability Insurance cover.
- We do not hold an AALS license. This is because none of the fantastic activities we offer to schools or groups of young people under the age of 18 (not accompanied by a parent/carer) come under current licensing regulations.
Ready to Plan Your Visit
For a professionally delivered, adventurous school trip in Lancashire, contact Outdoor Elements to discuss availability and a bespoke programme tailored to your objectives.
Pump House Dean Wood
Trapp Lane
Simonstone
Lancashire
BB12 7JD
