Nature Explorers
At Danegrove, we are excited to offer our Nature Explorers programme on Ridgeway Avenue.
All children will have the opportunity to take part in Nature Explorers sessions throughout the year, enjoying regular opportunities to learn, play and discover in our outdoor environment.
“The best classroom and the richest classroom is roofed only by the sky” Margaret McMillan.
Our Nature Explorers Ethos
Nature Explorers is a child-centred outdoor learning programme that encourages curiosity, creativity and a love of the natural world. Through hands-on experiences, children have opportunities to explore, investigate, problem-solve and take on new challenges in a safe and supportive environment.
Our sessions promote confidence, resilience, independence and teamwork while helping children develop an appreciation of nature and the changing seasons. Activities are planned to support children's learning, wellbeing and personal development through meaningful outdoor experiences.
Nature Explorers sessions are led by experienced members of the Danegrove staff team.
Aims of Nature Explorers
Our Nature Explorers programme aims to:
- Encourage children to develop an appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment.
- Help children learn to respect and care for their local environment.
- Develop confidence, resilience and independence through achievable challenges.
- Foster cooperation, communication and teamwork.
- Inspire curiosity, creativity and problem-solving through outdoor exploration.
- Promote physical activity and wellbeing through learning outdoors.
Caring for Our Environment
Respecting and caring for the environment is an important part of Nature Explorers.
Children are encouraged to care for the outdoor spaces they use by treating plants, animals and habitats with respect. We aim to leave our site as we found it, only collecting natural materials that have already fallen to the ground and avoiding damage to living plants and wildlife.
Where possible, reclaimed, recycled and sustainable resources are used during activities. We regularly monitor our outdoor learning areas to ensure they remain healthy, safe and enjoyable for everyone.
What do we need to wear?
On their Nature Explorers session day, children should bring a separate bag containing:
- Waterproof clothing (or a change of trousers)
- Wellington boots or old trainers that can get muddy
- Please ensure all clothing is clearly labelled.
- A spare pair of socks
- Hat, gloves and scarf during colder weather
- Sun hat and sun cream during warmer weather
During the Session
Children take part in a wide variety of inclusive outdoor activities suitable for all abilities. Sessions may include den building, nature investigations, seasonal crafts, wildlife observation, storytelling, team challenges and opportunities for imaginative play.
Children are encouraged to work together, solve problems, explore their surroundings and take appropriate risks with adult guidance. Activities help develop listening skills, resilience, communication and respect for others and the environment.
Some sessions may include carefully supervised experiences such as campfire cooking or the use of simple hand tools where appropriate. These activities are fully risk assessed, introduced gradually and supervised closely by trained members of staff.
At the end of each session, children gather together to reflect on their experiences, share their discoveries and celebrate their achievements if they wish.
Back at school, children will remove muddy footwear outside (or on protective sheeting if necessary) before returning to the classroom and washing their hands.
