Keeping Warm

---

We ask that children come suitably dressed in old clothes that they are happy to get muddy, and wear wellies and waterproofs (all year round). Hats, scarves and gloves are a must in winter. We do have supplies of spare clothes should they be needed.

On very cold days, we keep warm by being really active, but we also build a cosy shelter, filled with cushions, blankets and woolly jumpers. We collect water from the stream, which we boil in the kelly kettle on the fire, to fill hot water bottles. Finally, the fire is going all day and hot chocolate is served every afternoon.

Similarly, on wet days, we will build extra shelters together to help us stay dry. For much of the year, the main site is well protected with the leaves on the trees. It is really only in the winter months that we sometimes need further cover.

Outdoor learning is complemented by a dedicated indoor learning space within a converted historic granary. This neurodivergent-friendly classroom provides a calm, low-stimulus environment used for focused learning activities, such as English, targeted interventions, and reflective work. A large connecting deck links the indoor and outdoor spaces, enabling smooth transitions, reducing anxiety, and allowing pupils to move flexibly between environments in line with their individual needs, readiness to learn, and emotional regulation.