Outdoor Learning & Environments
Nature, movement, discovery and adventure—every day of the year.
Learning beyond the classroom
Outdoor learning is at the heart of life at Little Lambs. Our varied gardens and specialist spaces allow children to move freely, investigate the natural world, take appropriate risks and experience the changing seasons throughout the year.
Time outdoors supports children’s physical development, wellbeing, confidence and curiosity. Our practitioners provide thoughtful supervision and adapt activities, environments and support so that every child can participate meaningfully and safely.
Growing and caring for nature
Our vegetable patch gives children first-hand experience of planting, tending, harvesting and tasting fruit and vegetables. Through gardening, children learn where food comes from, notice seasonal change and develop patience, responsibility and care for living things.
Our pond is home to frogs, newts, tadpoles and other wildlife. With close supervision, children can observe the pond throughout the seasons and enjoy pond dipping, helping them develop knowledge, respect and fascination for the natural world.
The Secret Garden and The Barn
The Secret Garden provides a rich setting for Forest School experiences, exploration and adventurous play. Activities are carefully risk assessed, with group sizes, supervision, weather and each child’s individual needs considered so that children can participate safely and inclusively throughout the year.
The Barn is our sheltered outdoor classroom and the main base for woodwork and some Forest School experiences. Children can learn to use real tools safely, investigate natural materials, examine their outdoor discoveries and take part in planting, creative work, stories and small-group activities.
Free-flow gardens
Our gardens are used as an extension of the indoor learning environment, with children able to move between spaces and follow their interests. Mud kitchens, sand and water play, construction, wheeled toys and imaginative areas offer opportunities for movement, collaboration, problem-solving and creativity.
Features include our water wall, sandpits, treehouse and slide, trike and scooter area, playhouse and nurture nook. Each space offers different possibilities while giving children the freedom to enjoy fresh air, physical activity and memorable shared experiences.
The Lavender Garden
Beside the Lavender Room, our sensory garden offers a calm outdoor space where children can pause, regulate and explore through touch, scent, sound and seasonal change. Thoughtfully chosen plants and natural features create opportunities for gentle sensory experiences, quiet reflection and supported learning.
The garden is also a special place of remembrance for the Little Lambs community. It provides a peaceful setting where children, families and team members can feel connected to nature and remember those who remain an important part of our story.
