Why Choose Forest School Nursery and Outdoor Learning?

Why the Great Outdoors is the Best Classroom of All

In the early years, children don’t just learn—they absorb the world around them through movement, play, and rich sensory experiences. And there’s no better place for that than outdoors, where curiosity runs wild and little bodies are free to move, explore, and grow.

At Cobham Forest School Nursery, nature is our co-teacher. The rustle of leaves, the texture of tree bark, the thrill of squelchy puddles—every element sparks imagination, ignites learning, and encourages children to take joyful risks in a safe, nurturing environment.

From stick swords and muddy potions to bug hunts and den-building, our “wild play” invites children to think creatively, solve problems, and connect deeply with the natural world around them.

Out here, every day is an adventure. And in nature’s playground, confidence blooms, resilience builds, and a lifelong love of learning takes root.

Educational Benefits

  • Natural Environment

    Changing seasons to stimulate curiousity

    Real-life problem solving opportunities

    Understanding and connection with nature

  • Challenge and Risk

    Awareness of risks to set own boundaries

    Helps foster a ‘can-do’ mindset

    Adapting to new situations

  • Freedom

    Space to move and build independence

    Set up for collaborative play

    Encourages children to speak up and listen

  • Greater Fun!

    Bigger, more hands-on opportunities

    Environment for imagination to run wild

    Using open-ended, natural resources

Further Benefits

  • Physical

    Fresh air and fewer germs

    Increased fitness and muscle strength

    Balance and motorical skills

  • Psychological & Mental

    Accelerates speech development

    Builds resilience and ability to risk assess

    Improves attention, focus and creativity skills

  • Social

    Encourages empathy and less behavioural problems

    Builds confidence and leadership

    Greater use of team work and negotiation skills

  • Environmental

    Future Generations Caring for our Planet

    We see learning outdoors as a two-way path whereby being in nature not only benefits your child, but hopefully your child will grow up to care for nature too.

    We believe that the more awareness and understanding of nature we can inspire children to be part of a future generation who understand and have natural care for the planet.