Exploring the Magic of the Outdoors at Thomas Hall School
Why walk around the mud when you can jump right in?
The Year 1 children from Thomas Hall School in Exeter had the time of their lives getting muddy! Nothing beats the joy of outdoor play, laughter, and a little (or a lot!) of mud.
Exploring the Magic of Forest School at Thomas Hall School
At Thomas Hall School, they believe that education extends beyond the walls of a classroom. The Forest School program offers students from Early Years to Key Stage 4 the opportunity to connect with nature, develop essential life skills, and foster a deep respect for the environment.
What is Forest School?
Forest School is an immersive outdoor learning experience where students engage in hands-on activities that promote resilience, creativity, teamwork, and environmental awareness. Through a carefully structured curriculum, students progressively build their outdoor skills year after year.
Skills for Every Stage
Each year, students participate in exciting seasonal activities, including:
Autumn – Wildlife identification, bushcraft, shelter-building, and fire-lighting.
Winter – Survival skills, campfire cooking, and natural crafts.
Spring – Woodcraft, sustainability projects, and climate education.
Summer – Creative arts inspired by nature, environmental art, and outdoor performances.
Learning Through Experience
Students get hands-on experience with fire safety, tool use, and cooking, learning how to light fires, build shelters, and cook meals over an open flame. As they progress, they refine their skills—whether it’s whittling, using hand drills, or even building structures like birdhouses and benches.
Fostering Environmental Stewardship
Our program helps students understand the interdependence of ecosystems and the impact of human activity on the environment. They engage in eco-projects, such as wildflower planting, habitat restoration, and even designing sustainability initiatives for the school.
Beyond the Classroom
The adventure continues with educational trips to Dartmoor National Park, where students explore wilderness survival, nature conservation, and team-building activities.
Thomas Hall School are cultivating curious minds, resilient learners, and environmental advocates - one forest adventure at a time!
Learn more about Thomas Hall School here.
Audio Description of photo: Two Year One girl's sliding down a hill in the mud, wearing outdoor clothes and wellies. Both girls have big smiles on their faces.
